Tribune News Service

New Delhi, April 11

The Indian Air Force (IAF), which is currently battling its lowest strength of fighter jets in a decade, today started its bi-annual “commanders conference” to enhance its operational capability.The five-day conference will be discussing various means and methods to improve operational capability, including the induction of new fighter jets. Minister of State for Defence Rao Inderjit Singh inaugurated the conference this morning.IAF Chief Marshal Arup Raha updated the minister on operational status of the IAF, security measures in vogue and the progress on infrastructure development, including upgrade of airfields.The IAF showed how it has increased the aircraft serviceability and the corresponding increase in flying tasks of the IAF.The IAF chief explained the focus areas and the future roadmap. Defence Secretary Mohan Kumar and Secretary (Defence Production) AK Gupta were also present at the meeting.During this conference, senior leadership of the IAF would deliberate on issues pertaining to air operations, maintenance, human resources and administration. Aspects of support provided by the Defence public sector undertakings through indigenised production of prime equipment would also be discussed in a daylong session on April 13.The IAF will be discussing the light combat aircraft, the Tejas, with high-level delegation from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

5-day bi-annual event

• The Indian Air Force started its bi-annual ‘commanders conference’ on Monday
• The five-day conference will be discussing various means and methods to improve operational capability, including the induction of new fighter jets
• Senior officials will deliberate on issues pertaining to air operations, maintenance, human resources and administration