Addressing a press conference ahead of the 87th Air Force Day parade, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, on Tuesday, 8 October, said under the current government, there has been a shift in the way of handling terrorist attacks. He said that there was a strategic relevance to the Balakot airstrikes in February.
“Strategic relevance of the Balakot airstrike was the resolve of political leadership to punish perpetrators of terrorism. There is a major shift in government’s way of handling terrorist attacks.”Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, IAF Chief
He also expressed concern about the present security environment in the neighbouring South Asian countries. “The Pulwama attack is a stark reminder of the persistent threat to the defence installations,” Bhadauria said.
Later, while addressing the Air Force Day parade, he said the Air Force is grateful for the nation’s trust and confidence in it.
“On behalf of all air warriors, I assure the nation of our sacred resolve, defending the sovereignty of our skies and safeguarding our national interest at all cost.”Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, IAF Chief
(With inputs from ANI.)
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)