Indian Air Force has transformed into multi-spectrum strategic force: Arup Raha

LUCKNOW: Indian Air Force Chief Marshal Arup Raha today said the IAF has transformed into a multi-spectrum strategic force and is aligned with India's growth.

"IAF has transformed into a multi-spectrum strategic force. The growth of IAF is aligned with India's growth and is aimed at acquiring the requisite strategic footprint for exerting our influence in our growing areas of interest," he said.

The Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) and Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) was speaking during a special function at La Martiniere College to honour its war veteran alumni.

The war heroes who were felicitated included the legendary Keelor brothers and Flight Lieutenant Alfred Tyrone Cooke of the 1965 war fame and Air Vice Marshal Harbans Parminder Singh, the hero of 1971 war.

Patricia Keelor, wife of Late Wg Cdr Trevor Keelor unveiled the memorial tablet in honour of her late husband.

"The courage, valour and leadership displayed by the legendary Keelor brothers and Flight Lieutenant Alfred Tyrone Cooke during 1965 war are striking examples of decisive impact of air power that is acknowledged by the entire nation with respect," the IAF Chief said.

The greatest achievement of IAF during the 1965 war was thwarting Pakistan army's armour thrust in Chhamb-Jaurian sector which resulted in failure of Operation Grand Slam which aimed to cut off Jammu and Kashmir from India, he said.

Acknowledging the contribution of all veterans in shaping the Indian Armed Forces, the IAF chief said, the present and future generations shall forever be indebted to them for their deeds of courage and sacrifice.

Later, he also participated in a function where Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister felicitated the dependents of IAF martyrs killed in chopper clash in Bakshi ka Talab on July 25 last year and presented them cheques of Rs 20 lakh.

Paying tributes to the martyrs Akhilesh Yadav said the people of the country give maximum respect to its armed forces and added that during the tenure of Mulayam Singh Yadav as CM, the then SP regime started the tradition of honouring martyrs, which his government was carrying forward.

The Army played an important role in rescue and relief works during earthquake in Nepal and natural calamity in Uttrakhand evacuating thousands of people to safety, he said.

Appreciating the CM's gesture, IAF Chief Arup Raha said the state government was extending maximum basic help to the Air Force.

Referring to construction of blocks on Agra-Lucknow Expressway for landing of fighter jets, he said similar facility has been provided at other airstrips as well, which would add to the ability of the IAF.

He also visited the headquarters of Central Command, met Army Commander Central Command Lieutenant General Rajan Bakhshi and discussed matters of joint operational synergy.