Date:07/11/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/11/07/stories/2009110751860500.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

IAF can handle all threats: Barbora

Bangalore: Despite the Indian Air Force’s squadron strength being less than the sanctioned strength, there is no cause for concern as the latest additions to its aircraft inventory enables it to handle all threat, Vice Chief of Air Staff, P.K. Barbora said on Friday. Speaking to reporters at the golden jubilee celebrations of the Gas Turbine Research Establishment, Mr. Barbora said: “The capability of the Sukhoi 30 Mki is much greater than that of the MiG-21 as it can carry more weapons. Our squadrons might be fewer but our capability has gone up.” IAF has 34 squadrons while the sanctioned strength is 39.5. The former Air Vice Marshal and founder director S.N. Roy Choudhary was honoured with the life-time achievement award.

— Staff Reporter