New Delhi, Mar 27: Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, the Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), emphasized on Wednesday that operations akin to the Balakot airstrike have demonstrated the potential of aerospace power beyond enemy territories, given the necessary political resolve.
Speaking at a seminar titled “Aerospace Power in Future Conflicts,” Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari underscored the increasing reliance on space-based assets for strategic advantage, acknowledging the inevitability of militarization and weaponization of space.
He painted a picture of the skies as both a domain of wonder and fierce competition, where aerial superiority has historically played a decisive role in shaping the fate of nations and conflicts.
Highlighting the evolving nature of warfare, the IAF Chief projected future conflicts to feature a blend of kinetic and non-kinetic forces, alongside advancements such as multi-domain operations and heightened precision, all under intense media scrutiny.
Referring to operations similar to the Balakot airstrike, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari emphasized the importance of political determination in executing aerospace operations beyond enemy lines, even in scenarios of no-war and no-peace, while navigating nuclear tensions.
Moreover, he stressed the critical role of space as a domain for military operations, where seamless communication, navigation, and surveillance capabilities are essential for the survivability of modern military forces.
In essence, the remarks by the IAF Chief underscore the significance of political will and technological advancements in shaping the future of aerospace power and military strategy.
