The Air Chief emphasized the importance of enhancing domestic defense equipment production, stating that while India has better-trained personnel than China, it falls behind in technology and defense manufacturing.
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Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, the newly appointed chief of the air force, expressed on Friday his readiness to incorporate more than the designated 25 percent of Agniveers into the force; however, he noted that the ultimate decision rests with the Centre.
The air chief emphasized the necessity of enhancing domestic defense equipment production, highlighting that while India possesses better-trained personnel than China, it falls short in technological advancements—an area in which it once surpassed China—as well as in defense manufacturing.
“Our feedback regarding the Agniveers has been overwhelmingly positive. We were inquired whether we could take in more than 25 percent of the Agniveers, and we affirmed that we could. The final decision lies with the government,” Singh stated during a press conference in anticipation of Air Force Day on October 8.
As part of the contentious Agnipath scheme for short-term military recruitment, 75 percent of the Agniveers are scheduled to be released after four years without any pension or gratuity, while the remaining individuals will be integrated into the forces.
There have been indications that the government is contemplating the integration of over 25 percent of the Agniveers; however, Singh’s comments represent the first official statement on this matter from such a high-ranking official. Prior to the introduction of the scheme in 2022, a standard general-duty soldier typically served for a duration of 15 to 18 years. Veterans have expressed their concerns regarding the scheme, arguing that such short-term enlistments could adversely affect professionalism and morale within the military.
The Opposition, alongside unemployed youth, has called for the scheme’s repeal in favor of the previous recruitment system. In July, two former navy chiefs questioned the combat readiness of the Agniveers.
China & equipment..
Singh indicated that China is swiftly enhancing its infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh, while noting that India is also undertaking similar efforts. Since May 2020, India and China have been engaged in a border standoff in eastern Ladakh.
The air chief emphasized the importance of increasing domestic production of fighter jets, particularly involving the private sector. He stated that the air force aims to achieve a complete inventory by 2047, with all aircraft either manufactured in India or both developed and produced domestically.
In July, Singh, who was then an Air Marshal, remarked that “atmanirbharta (self-reliance) cannot be at the cost of the nation’s defence,” in response to the government’s advocacy for its Make-in-India initiative within the defence sector.
He expressed his support for the movement towards self-reliance in defence but highlighted the shortcomings in domestic defence manufacturing capabilities.
On Friday, while discussing the ongoing border standoff with China, he stated: “We have conducted our analysis. We do not intend to adopt an offensive posture unnecessarily. We will act only when compelled to do so…. Our plans are in place.”
He stated that one area where he can confidently assert superiority is in training. He emphasized that their training is significantly more effective, and they have better exposure compared to their counterparts. He noted that they are informed through various sources about the training methods of other air forces and the extent of their interactions, highlighting that, in terms of personnel, they are considerably ahead.
Regarding technology, he acknowledged that they currently do not match their competitors, having previously been more advanced. He recognized a need to improve and catch up in this area. Furthermore, he pointed out that their production rates are considerably lower, indicating a pressing need for enhancement. He expressed optimism that improvements would occur over time, though not instantaneously.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently operating with 31 fighter squadrons, against an authorized strength of 42.
Recently, the IAF raised concerns with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited about the slow progress of the Tejas light combat aircraft program. They indicated that delays in induction could compromise the force’s combat readiness and urged the timely fulfillment of the ₹48,000-crore contract for 83 Tejas jets.
Singh addressed the issue of geopolitical tensions and conflicts, emphasizing the necessity of developing indigenous weapons systems to effectively respond to potential future security challenges. He noted that Russia had supplied three units of the S-400 missile systems and had committed to delivering the remaining two units by the following year. Singh remarked, “We possess the capability to engage our adversaries on foreign soil, as demonstrated during the Balakot airstrikes in 2019.”
