IAF's joint exercise with China is on cards: Air Chief Marshal

NAGPUR: A joint exercise of Indian Air Force (IAF) with its Chinese counterparts has been planned in near future as part of building our strong ties with Republic of China, Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major, the Chief of Air Staff of IAF, who recently paid a visit to the neighbouring country, said on Monday.

"My recent visit to China was successful one and had useful discussions with the counterpart there and have planned a joint Air Force exercise in near future which will be first of such kind with China," Fali Homi Major told a press conference, here today.

"Though no schedule has been drawn right now but it may take sooner or later, the Air Chief said adding that Chinese Army was coming for joint Army exercise in December in Belgaum. The 'Surya Kiran' aircraft team displayed an excellent aerobatic show there during the visit," he added.

On acquisition of 126 fighter aircraft for IAF, he said the process is on and flight evaluation will take place shortly before final induction of these planes.

Admitting gaps in air defence system which has been pointed out by the CAG in its report, the Air Chief Marshal said the Government was for strengthing our radar system and new systems are being acquired. Many such radars and missle systems are in the pipelines, he stated.