Rafale gives India advantage over its adversaries, says IAF Chief

The Indian Air Force (IAF) RKS Bhadauria has claimed that recent addition of Rafale fighter jets has given India an edge over its adversaries, as he vows to be ready for two-front war against China and Pakistan.

“The IAF is ready for any possible conflict, including a two-front,” he said while addressing to at the annual presser ahead of the Air Force Day on October 8.

Bhadauria added: “The IAF is well positioned to take on China across all threats.” According to him the recent addition of the fighter jets has given India an edge over its adversaries.

Replying to a question whether the military was surprised by Chinese act in Ladakh, he said, “We acted swiftly and it will not be correct to say we were surprised... We do hope the talks between the military commanders progress on expected lines. The current progress (by China) is an effort to dig on for the winter... we too are taking actions to step up air assets."

“Rafale gives the ability to strike first and strike deep and hard even in a contested air space,” he said.

About the delivery schedule of fighter jets, he said five planes were expected beginning November. Next year, the first squadron would be ready and by 2023, both the squadrons (36 planes) would be ready and inducted, he said.