At least five out of the first batch of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft are likely to join the Indian Air Force (IAF) by July end, providing it much-needed muscle amid a depleting fighter strength.
The Indian Army is stretched between its northern borders with China where it is locked in multiple standoffs with the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, while in the western borders it is busy tackling the increasing cross-border firing and infiltration bids by Pakistan-based terror groups.
In either case, it is air power that could tip the balance.
The first batch of five Rafale will be inducted at the Air Force Station in Ambala on July 29 subject to weather. The final induction ceremony will take place in the second half of August 20.
“IAF aircrew and ground crew have undergone comprehensive training on the aircraft, including its highly advanced weapons systems and are fully operational now,” IAF said.
Post arrival, efforts will focus on operationalisation of the aircraft at the earliest.
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