Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Thursday said that the Indian Air Force has the capability of locating, fixing and striking across the border.
Addressing a press conference on the eve of Air Force Day, Dhanao said that the IAF is prepared to fight at short notice in full synergy with other two sister services if the need arises.
“The force is ready for a full spectrum operation but added that any decision on surgical strike involving the IAF has to be taken by the government. We are ready to take on any challenge,” he said.
Army chief Gen. Bipin Rawat had said last month that the country should be prepared for a two-front war, insisting China has started ‘lexing its muscles’, while there seems to be no scope for reconciliation with Pakistan whose military and polity saw an adversary in India.
Referring to the Doklam standoff, the Air chief said Chinese forces are still present in Tibet’s Chumbi Valley and have not withdrawn completely.
“We expect them to withdraw,” Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa said.
The stand-off started in mid-June when Chinese troops entered Bhutanese territory to build a road, sparking India’s intervention, citing agreements to maintain a status quo in the region. India had deployed about 350 Army personnel in the area.
The status of Chinese troops in geopolitically crucial Chumbi Valley, which was at the heart of Dokla standoff, will have its implications.
The Chief of Air Staff also said the IAF will achieve sanctioned strength of 42 fighter squadrons by 2032.
