The Indian Air Force on Monday clarified that no <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-an-32-aircraft-with-13-passengers-on-board-goes-missing-after-takeoff-223865">wreckage of its missing AN-32 aircraft</a> has been sighted.

The IAF has said that while some reports of possible location of the crash site were received, no wreckage has been sighted so far, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

It added that search operations will continue from the air and by ground parties of the Indian Army throughout the night.

IAF's AN-32 aircraft took off from Assam's Jorhat airbase at 12:25 pm today and went missing after 1 pm.&nbsp;

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IAF is coordinating with Indian Army, various government and civil agencies to locate the missing aircraft. Search operations will continue from air and by ground parties of Indian Army through the night. 4/4
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1135538224078569472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The aircraft, which had 13 crew members aboard, was headed to Arunachal Pradesh's Mechuka airfield near the China border.

It was supposed to cover 205 kilometres between Assam's Jorhat and Mechuka in Arunachal Pradesh.

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Some reports of possible location of crash site were received, however, no wreckage has been sighted so far. 3/4
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1135538222442745856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The IAF has launched Sukhoi-30 combat aircraft and C-130 Special Ops aircraft on a search mission for locating the IAF AN-32 aircraft. The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have also been deployed in the search operation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to IAF vice chief, Air Marshal Rakesh Singh Bhadauria regarding the matter today. Singh took to Twitter and posted that Bhadauria has informed him about the search operation.&nbsp;

"He has apprised me of the steps taken by the IAF to find the missing aircraft. I pray for the safety of all passengers on board," his tweet read.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian Air Force’s AN-32 aircraft with 13 onboard goes missing

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-air-forces-an-32-aircraft-with-13-onboard-goes-missing-223891/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A similar incident occurred in July 2016 when an AN-32 aircraft went missing over the Bay of Bengal. The aircraft had over 25 people aboard. India launched its largest search operation involving 16 ships and a submarine to locate the plane. All passengers were presumed dead.

&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force on Monday clarified that no wreckage of its missing AN-32 aircraft has been sighted. The IAF has said that while some reports of possible location of the crash site were received, no wreckage has been sighted so far, news agency ANI reported.

The Indian Air Force on Monday clarified that no wreckage of its missing AN-32 aircraft has been sighted. The IAF has said that while some reports of possible location of the crash site were received, no wreckage has been sighted so far, news agency ANI reported. It added that search operations will continue from the air and by ground parties of the Indian Army throughout the night. IAF's AN-32 aircraft took off from Assam's Jorhat airbase at 12:25 pm today and went missing after 1 pm. IAF is coordinating with Indian Army, various government and civil agencies to locate the missing aircraft. Search operations will continue from air and by ground parties of Indian Army through the night. 4/4 — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) June 3, 2019 × The aircraft, which had 13 crew members aboard, was headed to Arunachal Pradesh's Mechuka airfield near the China border. It was supposed to cover 205 kilometres between Assam's Jorhat and Mechuka in Arunachal Pradesh. Some reports of possible location of crash site were received, however, no wreckage has been sighted so far. 3/4 — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) June 3, 2019 × The IAF has launched Sukhoi-30 combat aircraft and C-130 Special Ops aircraft on a search mission for locating the IAF AN-32 aircraft. The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have also been deployed in the search operation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to IAF vice chief, Air Marshal Rakesh Singh Bhadauria regarding the matter today. Singh took to Twitter and posted that Bhadauria has informed him about the search operation. "He has apprised me of the steps taken by the IAF to find the missing aircraft. I pray for the safety of all passengers on board," his tweet read. Watch: Indian Air Force’s AN-32 aircraft with 13 onboard goes missing A similar incident occurred in July 2016 when an AN-32 aircraft went missing over the Bay of Bengal. The aircraft had over 25 people aboard. India launched its largest search operation involving 16 ships and a submarine to locate the plane. All passengers were presumed dead.

No wreckage has been sighted so far: Indian Air Force on missing AN-32 aircraft

An AN-32 aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) went missing in Assam shortly after takeoff on Monday with 13 people on aboard, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The aircraft last contacted ground sources at 1 pm today after taking off from Jorhat airbase at 12:25 pm, said the news agency. It was headed to the Mechuka airfield in Arunachal Pradesh near the China border.

It's been&nbsp;more than three hours since the aircraft went missing; it was supposed to cover the 205 km distance between Jorhat and Mechuka.&nbsp;Those aboard include&nbsp;13 crew members.

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IAF AN-32 Aircraft overdue for more than two hours in Menchuka air field of Arunachal Pradesh with 13 persons on board. The aircraft last contacted ground sources at 1 PM today after taking off from Jorhat airbase at 12:25 pm.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1135485804866707456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The IAF has launched Sukhoi-30 combat aircraft and C-130 Special Ops aircraft on a search mission for locating the IAF AN-32 aircraft. The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have also been deployed in the search operation.

District Commissioner of Arunachal Pradesh's West Siang District, Swetika Sachan, said that the missing plane was last seen at Shi Yomi District near Tato Manigong.

Lack of mobile connectivity is making it difficult to get any information from the villagers in the district.&nbsp;

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Spoke to Vice Chief of <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a>, Air Marshal Rakesh Singh Bhadauria regarding the missing IAF AN-32 Aircraft which is overdue for some hours. 
 
He has apprised me of the steps taken by the IAF to find the missing aircraft. I pray for the safety of all passengers on board.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1135498620554305536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to IAF vice chief, Air Marshal Rakesh Singh Bhadauria regarding the matter today. Singh took to Twitter and posted that Bhadauria has informed him about the search operation.&nbsp;

"He has apprised me of the steps taken by the IAF to find the missing aircraft. I pray for the safety of all passengers on board," his tweet read.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian Air Force’s AN-32 aircraft with 13 onboard goes missing<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-air-forces-an-32-aircraft-with-13-onboard-goes-missing-223891/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

An AN-32 aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) went missing in Assam shortly after takeoff on Monday with 13 people on aboard, news agency ANI reported. The aircraft last contacted ground sources at 1 pm today after taking off from Jorhat airbase at 12:25 pm, said the news agency.

An AN-32 aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) went missing in Assam shortly after takeoff on Monday with 13 people on aboard, news agency ANI reported. The aircraft last contacted ground sources at 1 pm today after taking off from Jorhat airbase at 12:25 pm, said the news agency. It was headed to the Mechuka airfield in Arunachal Pradesh near the China border. It's been more than three hours since the aircraft went missing; it was supposed to cover the 205 km distance between Jorhat and Mechuka. Those aboard include 13 crew members. IAF AN-32 Aircraft overdue for more than two hours in Menchuka air field of Arunachal Pradesh with 13 persons on board. The aircraft last contacted ground sources at 1 PM today after taking off from Jorhat airbase at 12:25 pm. — ANI (@ANI) June 3, 2019 × The IAF has launched Sukhoi-30 combat aircraft and C-130 Special Ops aircraft on a search mission for locating the IAF AN-32 aircraft. The Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police have also been deployed in the search operation. District Commissioner of Arunachal Pradesh's West Siang District, Swetika Sachan, said that the missing plane was last seen at Shi Yomi District near Tato Manigong. Lack of mobile connectivity is making it difficult to get any information from the villagers in the district. Spoke to Vice Chief of @IAF_MCC, Air Marshal Rakesh Singh Bhadauria regarding the missing IAF AN-32 Aircraft which is overdue for some hours. He has apprised me of the steps taken by the IAF to find the missing aircraft. I pray for the safety of all passengers on board. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 3, 2019 × Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to IAF vice chief, Air Marshal Rakesh Singh Bhadauria regarding the matter today. Singh took to Twitter and posted that Bhadauria has informed him about the search operation. "He has apprised me of the steps taken by the IAF to find the missing aircraft. I pray for the safety of all passengers on board," his tweet read. Watch: Indian Air Force’s AN-32 aircraft with 13 onboard goes missing

Indian Air Force AN-32 aircraft, with 13 on board, goes missing after takeoff 

All temporary restrictions imposed on all air routes, in the country's air space have been lifted, the Indian Air Force said.

The move comes immediately after Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/cabinet-20-most-ministers-retain-earlier-ministries-check-complete-list-223154">Narendra Modi began his second term in office</a>.

"Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 Feb 19, have been removed," the IAF tweeted on Friday.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Information?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Information</a> : Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 Feb 19, have been removed.
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1134431025612767232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The IAF said it had removed restrictions that were imposed on all routes a day after its 12 Mirage 2000s crossed over to Pakistan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-to-move-air-defence-units-closer-to-pakistan-border-post-balakot-strikes-218676">attacked a JeM terrorist training camp</a> in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The strikes were in response to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/virtual-sims-used-in-pulwama-terror-attack-india-to-approach-us-for-help-205320">terror attack in Pulwama</a>, in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives on February 14.

Pakistan on Wednesday extended the ban on India using its airspace for commercial flights till June 14.

Since then, foreign carriers using Indian airspace have been forced to take costly detours because they cannot fly over Pakistan. The closure mainly affects flights from Europe to Southeast Asia.

Pakistan lies in the middle of a vital aviation corridor whereby the airspace restrictions, which have been continuing since a long time, impacts hundreds of commercial flights each day, extending flight timings for passengers, as well as fuel costs for airlines.

All temporary restrictions imposed on all air routes, in the country's air space have been lifted, the Indian Air Force said. The move comes immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his second term in office.

All temporary restrictions imposed on all air routes, in the country's air space have been lifted, the Indian Air Force said. The move comes immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his second term in office. "Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 Feb 19, have been removed," the IAF tweeted on Friday. #Information : Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 Feb 19, have been removed. — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) May 31, 2019 × The IAF said it had removed restrictions that were imposed on all routes a day after its 12 Mirage 2000s crossed over to Pakistan and attacked a JeM terrorist training camp in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The strikes were in response to the terror attack in Pulwama, in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives on February 14. Pakistan on Wednesday extended the ban on India using its airspace for commercial flights till June 14. Since then, foreign carriers using Indian airspace have been forced to take costly detours because they cannot fly over Pakistan. The closure mainly affects flights from Europe to Southeast Asia. Pakistan lies in the middle of a vital aviation corridor whereby the airspace restrictions, which have been continuing since a long time, impacts hundreds of commercial flights each day, extending flight timings for passengers, as well as fuel costs for airlines.

Indian Air Force lifts temporary airspace restrictions, imposed after Balakot strike

Rajanth Singh on Saturday took charge as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-moves-to-south-block-gets-defence-ministry-223127">defence minister</a> and immediately held a meeting with the top military brass.

Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik, Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and top officials of the ministry accorded a warm welcome to Singh.

After taking charge, the former home minister held a meeting with Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa and newly appointed Navy chief Karambir Singh.

The defence secretary and several other senior officials of the ministry were also present at the meeting.

The Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday announced portfolios for 24 cabinet ministers, 9 ministers of state with independent charge and 24 Ministers of State (MoS) in Union Cabinet for the 17th Lok Sabha.

Terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, incursion attempts by Pakistan, and the emergence of Islamic State were among the top challenges faced by Singh as Home Minister.

As India's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-moves-to-south-block-gets-defence-ministry-223127">&nbsp;new defence minister, Rajnath Singh</a>'s most crucial challenge will be to speed up the long-delayed modernisation of the three services besides ensuring overall coherence in their combat readiness.&nbsp;

His another challenge will be to ensure peace and tranquillity along the frontier with China while developing required military infrastructure to deal with any possible Chinese hostility.&nbsp;

Rajanth Singh on Saturday took charge as the defence minister and immediately held a meeting with the top military brass. Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik, Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and top officials of the ministry accorded a warm welcome to Singh.

Rajanth Singh on Saturday took charge as the defence minister and immediately held a meeting with the top military brass. Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik, Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and top officials of the ministry accorded a warm welcome to Singh. After taking charge, the former home minister held a meeting with Army chief Gen Bipin Rawat, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa and newly appointed Navy chief Karambir Singh. The defence secretary and several other senior officials of the ministry were also present at the meeting. The Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday announced portfolios for 24 cabinet ministers, 9 ministers of state with independent charge and 24 Ministers of State (MoS) in Union Cabinet for the 17th Lok Sabha. Terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, incursion attempts by Pakistan, and the emergence of Islamic State were among the top challenges faced by Singh as Home Minister. As India's new defence minister, Rajnath Singh's most crucial challenge will be to speed up the long-delayed modernisation of the three services besides ensuring overall coherence in their combat readiness. His another challenge will be to ensure peace and tranquillity along the frontier with China while developing required military infrastructure to deal with any possible Chinese hostility.

Rajnath Singh takes charge as defence minister

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-will-prove-to-be-the-gamechanger-for-iaf-air-chief-marshal-bs-dhanoa-221975">Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa</a> received the baton of Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) from outgoing Chairman COSC and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba here on Wednesday.

A press note from PIB Defence Wing said, "Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa will be the Chairman COSC with effect from May 31, consequent to the relinquishment of charge by Admiral Sunil Lanba upon superannuation."

The release further said, "Dhanoa, an alumnus of Rashtriya Indian Military College and the National Defence Academy, was commissioned in the Flying Branch of Indian Air Force in June 1978. He is an experienced fighter pilot and a qualified CAT 'A' Flying Instructor with over 3000 hours of flying experience to his credit...The Air Chief Marshal has mainly flown the MiG-21 aircraft with flying experience across the entire spectrum of fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force."

"During the Kargil war (1999), he was the Commanding Officer of a frontline ground attack fighter squadron. He has held many coveted operational and staff assignments that include command of a frontline fighter Base, Director Fighter Operations and War planning at Western Air Command, Chief Instructor (Air) at DSSC, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Intelligence) at Air HQ and Senior Air Staff officer of two operational Commands.&nbsp;

He was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of South Western Air Command and has also been the Vice Chief of the Air Staff," the release added.

Admiral Sunil Lanba is proceeding on retirement on May 31, after a distinguished career spanning over four decades. Dhanoa is an ardent supporter of Tri-Services Jointmanship, he was instrumental in harmonising the efforts of the three Services in a number of Tri-Services issues.

&nbsp;

Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa received the baton of Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) from outgoing Chairman COSC and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba here on Wednesday.

Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa received the baton of Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) from outgoing Chairman COSC and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba here on Wednesday. A press note from PIB Defence Wing said, "Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa will be the Chairman COSC with effect from May 31, consequent to the relinquishment of charge by Admiral Sunil Lanba upon superannuation." The release further said, "Dhanoa, an alumnus of Rashtriya Indian Military College and the National Defence Academy, was commissioned in the Flying Branch of Indian Air Force in June 1978. He is an experienced fighter pilot and a qualified CAT 'A' Flying Instructor with over 3000 hours of flying experience to his credit...The Air Chief Marshal has mainly flown the MiG-21 aircraft with flying experience across the entire spectrum of fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force." "During the Kargil war (1999), he was the Commanding Officer of a frontline ground attack fighter squadron. He has held many coveted operational and staff assignments that include command of a frontline fighter Base, Director Fighter Operations and War planning at Western Air Command, Chief Instructor (Air) at DSSC, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Intelligence) at Air HQ and Senior Air Staff officer of two operational Commands. He was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of South Western Air Command and has also been the Vice Chief of the Air Staff," the release added. Admiral Sunil Lanba is proceeding on retirement on May 31, after a distinguished career spanning over four decades. Dhanoa is an ardent supporter of Tri-Services Jointmanship, he was instrumental in harmonising the efforts of the three Services in a number of Tri-Services issues.

Air Chief B S Dhanoa receives baton of Chairman, COSC from Admiral Sunil Lanba

The first Rafale combat aircraft would be inducted into the Indian Air Force's 'Golden Arrows' 17 Squadron which was commanded by Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa during the Kargil war in 1999.

"The first unit to receive the Rafale combat aircraft would be the 17 Squadron which was earlier located in Bhatinda in Punjab and will now be shifted to Ambala in Haryana," IAF sources told ANI.

The other squadron of the fighter aircraft would be based out of Hashimara in West Bengal to tackle the front facing China, sources added. The 17 Squadron used to operate the MiG-21s earlier and is 'number-plated' at the moment.

The first Rafale is expected to be handed over to the Indian Air Force in September 2019 but it would be required to undergo intensive 1,500 hours of testing to validate the India Specific Enhancements on it. So, the first batch of the four planes is likely to arrive at Ambala around May 2020.

In September 2016, India signed a deal with the French government and Dassault Aviation to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets for over Euro 7.8 billion to arrest the fall of combat squadrons and meet urgent requirements on the eastern and western fronts.

The plan to deploy one squadron of the planes at the Saraswat air base in Uttar Pradesh did not work out due to land acquisition issues.

Ambala base has been housing Jaguar aircraft squadrons mainly looking after the Pakistan front but due to rapid deployment capabilities, the planes can be utilised on both the fronts in case of requirement.&nbsp;

The first Rafale combat aircraft would be inducted into the Indian Air Force's 'Golden Arrows' 17 Squadron which was commanded by Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa during the Kargil war in 1999.

The first Rafale combat aircraft would be inducted into the Indian Air Force's 'Golden Arrows' 17 Squadron which was commanded by Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa during the Kargil war in 1999. "The first unit to receive the Rafale combat aircraft would be the 17 Squadron which was earlier located in Bhatinda in Punjab and will now be shifted to Ambala in Haryana," IAF sources told ANI. The other squadron of the fighter aircraft would be based out of Hashimara in West Bengal to tackle the front facing China, sources added. The 17 Squadron used to operate the MiG-21s earlier and is 'number-plated' at the moment. The first Rafale is expected to be handed over to the Indian Air Force in September 2019 but it would be required to undergo intensive 1,500 hours of testing to validate the India Specific Enhancements on it. So, the first batch of the four planes is likely to arrive at Ambala around May 2020. In September 2016, India signed a deal with the French government and Dassault Aviation to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets for over Euro 7.8 billion to arrest the fall of combat squadrons and meet urgent requirements on the eastern and western fronts. The plan to deploy one squadron of the planes at the Saraswat air base in Uttar Pradesh did not work out due to land acquisition issues. Ambala base has been housing Jaguar aircraft squadrons mainly looking after the Pakistan front but due to rapid deployment capabilities, the planes can be utilised on both the fronts in case of requirement.

IAF chief's squadron to be first Rafale combat aircraft unit

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Monday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-team-to-visit-france-to-probe-possible-data-theft-during-rafale-office-break-in-221810">Rafale combat aircraft would prove to be a "game-changer"</a> for the Indian Air Force (IAF) as it would tilt the balance of power back in India's favour.

"IAF is about to get two squadrons of Rafale. Rafale has the capability that no enemy can interfere in the air operations which is a big thing. It will come and change the balance back to us," he told ANI here.

Dhanoa was speaking on the 20th anniversary of the Kargil war at an event organised to honour Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja, whose plane was shot down during the war. IAF Chief BS Dhanoa led the 'missing man' formation of the MiG-21 formation in the honour of the war hero.

He said that whatever shortcomings the IAF had during the Kargil war were long gone, citing laser designator pod (LDP), which is the laser sensor-cum-targeting system used in aircraft are now present in all aircraft fleets and refuelling aircraft too have now been added.

Watch:&nbsp;Rafale to boost more power to IAF, says Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iaf-chief-rafale-to-boost-more-power-to-iaf-205532/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Whatever our deficiencies were back then are now gone. We have now got LDP in all strike fleets. Only the Mirage 2000 had it during Kargil war, now the Jaguar, MiG-27 upgrade and Sukhoi-30's have it. We have also got UAVs, refuelers and evacs which indicate we have come ahead big time," Dhanoa said.

Talking about the strength and the modernization of the IAF fleets Dhanoa asserted that the Sukhoi-M30, Tejas and Rafale will soon arrive to replace the older aircraft which are in need of an upgrade.

"The MiG-21 Bison which is our main operational aircraft today has upgraded capabilities, it has significantly upgraded capabilities much advanced than the old MiG-21's."

"The new aircraft which are going to come in include a squadron of Su-30's manufactured by the HAL. A fleet of Tejas Mark 1a light combat aircraft in the FOC configuration and 2 squadrons of Rafale, the old aircraft will keep getting replaced as and when the decision is taken," he said.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Monday said that Rafale combat aircraft would prove to be a "game-changer" for the Indian Air Force (IAF) as it would tilt the balance of power back in India's favour.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Monday said that Rafale combat aircraft would prove to be a "game-changer" for the Indian Air Force (IAF) as it would tilt the balance of power back in India's favour. "IAF is about to get two squadrons of Rafale. Rafale has the capability that no enemy can interfere in the air operations which is a big thing. It will come and change the balance back to us," he told ANI here. Dhanoa was speaking on the 20th anniversary of the Kargil war at an event organised to honour Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja, whose plane was shot down during the war. IAF Chief BS Dhanoa led the 'missing man' formation of the MiG-21 formation in the honour of the war hero. He said that whatever shortcomings the IAF had during the Kargil war were long gone, citing laser designator pod (LDP), which is the laser sensor-cum-targeting system used in aircraft are now present in all aircraft fleets and refuelling aircraft too have now been added. Watch: Rafale to boost more power to IAF, says Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa "Whatever our deficiencies were back then are now gone. We have now got LDP in all strike fleets. Only the Mirage 2000 had it during Kargil war, now the Jaguar, MiG-27 upgrade and Sukhoi-30's have it. We have also got UAVs, refuelers and evacs which indicate we have come ahead big time," Dhanoa said. Talking about the strength and the modernization of the IAF fleets Dhanoa asserted that the Sukhoi-M30, Tejas and Rafale will soon arrive to replace the older aircraft which are in need of an upgrade. "The MiG-21 Bison which is our main operational aircraft today has upgraded capabilities, it has significantly upgraded capabilities much advanced than the old MiG-21's." "The new aircraft which are going to come in include a squadron of Su-30's manufactured by the HAL. A fleet of Tejas Mark 1a light combat aircraft in the FOC configuration and 2 squadrons of Rafale, the old aircraft will keep getting replaced as and when the decision is taken," he said.

Rafale will prove to be the gamechanger for IAF: Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa

The Indian Air Force is planning to send a forensic team to France to probe if any documents were stolen or copied during the break-in into its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-question-of-fir-registration-or-cbi-probe-into-rafale-deal-centre-to-supreme-court-221786">Rafale</a> Project management team office last Sunday.

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale Project management team office in France last Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

"A forensic team comprising cyber forensic experts in planned to be sent for the probe. In the initial investigations, it has emerged that no hard disk or files have been stolen," government sources told ANI.

They said the officers would find out if any soft copies were stolen or copied by the unidentified elements after they broke into the Rafale PMT office.

The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring.

The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case.

Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices.

The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force is planning to send a forensic team to France to probe if any documents were stolen or copied during the break-in into its Rafale Project management team office last Sunday.

The Indian Air Force is planning to send a forensic team to France to probe if any documents were stolen or copied during the break-in into its Rafale Project management team office last Sunday. Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale Project management team office in France last Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans. "A forensic team comprising cyber forensic experts in planned to be sent for the probe. In the initial investigations, it has emerged that no hard disk or files have been stolen," government sources told ANI. They said the officers would find out if any soft copies were stolen or copied by the unidentified elements after they broke into the Rafale PMT office. The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring. The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case. Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices. The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks.

IAF team to visit France to probe possible data theft during Rafale office break-in

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-rafale-office-broken-into-in-france-220615">Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt</a>

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian&nbsp;Rafale&nbsp;project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-unwanted-asian-shops-shun-phone-trade-ins-on-google-suspension-worries-220614">Huawei unwanted: Asian shops shun phone trade-ins on Google suspension worries</a>

Mobile phone retailers in some Asian countries are refusing to accept&nbsp;Huawei devices&nbsp;for trade-ins, as more consumers look to offload their device on worries Google suspending business with the Chinese firm will disrupt services.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-clears-names-of-4-judges-for-elevation-to-supreme-court-220602">Government clears names of 4 judges for elevation to Supreme Court</a>

The government is learnt to have cleared the names of&nbsp;four judges for their elevation to the Supreme Court, sources said Wednesday. Once the appointments formally come through, the top court will have its full sanctioned strength of 31 judges (including the chief justice). As of now, the apex court is functioning with 27 judges.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-maintain-law-order-and-peace-ministry-of-home-affairs-alerts-state-authorities-for-possible-violence-on-counting-day-220626">Lok Sabha polls 2019: Home Ministry alerts state authorities of possible violence on counting day</a> 
Ahead of the counting of votes, the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday issued an alert to State Chief Secretaries and DsGP regarding the possibility of eruption of violence in different parts of the country on the counting day.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/get-ready-for-difficult-times-chinas-xi-warns-during-trade-war-220625">Get ready for difficult times, China's Xi warns during trade war</a>

China must prepare for difficult times as the international situation is increasingly complex, President Xi Jinping said in comments carried by state media on Wednesday, as the country faces increased tariffs in a bitter trade war with Washington.

&nbsp;

Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans. Huawei unwanted: Asian shops shun phone trade-ins on Google suspension worries Mobile phone retailers in some Asian countries are refusing to accept Huawei devices for trade-ins, as more consumers look to offload their device on worries Google suspending business with the Chinese firm will disrupt services. Government clears names of 4 judges for elevation to Supreme Court The government is learnt to have cleared the names of four judges for their elevation to the Supreme Court, sources said Wednesday. Once the appointments formally come through, the top court will have its full sanctioned strength of 31 judges (including the chief justice). As of now, the apex court is functioning with 27 judges. Lok Sabha polls 2019: Home Ministry alerts state authorities of possible violence on counting day Ahead of the counting of votes, the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday issued an alert to State Chief Secretaries and DsGP regarding the possibility of eruption of violence in different parts of the country on the counting day. Get ready for difficult times, China's Xi warns during trade war China must prepare for difficult times as the international situation is increasingly complex, President Xi Jinping said in comments carried by state media on Wednesday, as the country faces increased tariffs in a bitter trade war with Washington.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Indian Air Force Wednesday said it has successfully test-fired the aerial version of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft.

The 2.5-tonne air-to-surface missile has a range of around 300 km, and it will significantly enhance the IAF's combat capability, military officials said.

The BrahMos cruise missile travels at a speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times that of sound.

"The launch from the aircraft was smooth and the missile followed the desired trajectory before directly hitting the land target," IAF spokesperson Group Capt Anupam Banerjee said.

The IAF became the first air force in the world to have successfully fired an air-launched 2.8 Mach surface attack missile of this category on a sea target on November 22, 2017.

"Today's was the second such live launch of the weapon. The integration of the weapon on the aircraft was a very complex process involving mechanical, electrical and software modifications on aircraft," the IAF said.

It said the software development of the aircraft was undertaken by the IAF engineers, while the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd carried out mechanical and electrical modifications on it.

"The dedicated and synergetic efforts of the IAF, Defence Research and Development Organisation, BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd and HAL have proven the capability of the nation to undertake such complex integrations," the IAF said.

It said the BrahMos missile provides the Indian Air Force with a much-desired capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target at sea or on land with pinpoint accuracy by day or night and in all weather conditions.

"The capability of the missile coupled with the superlative performance of the Su-30MKI aircraft gives the IAF the desired strategic reach," the IAF said.

BrahMos Aerospace, an India-Russian joint venture, produces the supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or from land platforms.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force Wednesday said it has successfully test-fired the aerial version of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft.

The Indian Air Force Wednesday said it has successfully test-fired the aerial version of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft. The 2.5-tonne air-to-surface missile has a range of around 300 km, and it will significantly enhance the IAF's combat capability, military officials said. The BrahMos cruise missile travels at a speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times that of sound. "The launch from the aircraft was smooth and the missile followed the desired trajectory before directly hitting the land target," IAF spokesperson Group Capt Anupam Banerjee said. The IAF became the first air force in the world to have successfully fired an air-launched 2.8 Mach surface attack missile of this category on a sea target on November 22, 2017. "Today's was the second such live launch of the weapon. The integration of the weapon on the aircraft was a very complex process involving mechanical, electrical and software modifications on aircraft," the IAF said. It said the software development of the aircraft was undertaken by the IAF engineers, while the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd carried out mechanical and electrical modifications on it. "The dedicated and synergetic efforts of the IAF, Defence Research and Development Organisation, BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd and HAL have proven the capability of the nation to undertake such complex integrations," the IAF said. It said the BrahMos missile provides the Indian Air Force with a much-desired capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target at sea or on land with pinpoint accuracy by day or night and in all weather conditions. "The capability of the missile coupled with the superlative performance of the Su-30MKI aircraft gives the IAF the desired strategic reach," the IAF said. BrahMos Aerospace, an India-Russian joint venture, produces the supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or from land platforms.

Indian Air Force successfully test fires aerial version of BrahMos missile

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-case-supreme-court-poses-queries-on-waiver-of-sovereign-guarantee-217590">Rafale</a> project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

"There was a break-in into the Indian Air Force Rafale project management team office which is located in a suburb of Paris in France. No hard disk or document has been stolen. More details are being ascertained about the motive," sources in the Indian Air Force told ANI.

The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring.

The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case.

Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices.

The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks.

Government sources said the Indian Air Force has already briefed the Defence Ministry in this regard and French police authorities are probing the case.

India in 2016 signed a Rs 59,800 crore agreement with France for acquiring 36 Rafale combat aircraft for meeting the shortfall in Indian Air Force squadron strength.

The incident has come after the long election season in India where allegations of corruption in the Rafale procurement were leveller by Congress President Rahul Gandhi.

The Rafale has been critical to IAF plans for securing the country against the aerial and other threats from enemy countries.

After the February 27 incident involving an aerial battle between India and Pakistan, IAF Chief BS Dhanoa had suggested that the Pakistanis would not have dared to come close to the LoC in a conflict situation if the country had Rafale planes in its inventory.

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans. "There was a break-in into the Indian Air Force Rafale project management team office which is located in a suburb of Paris in France. No hard disk or document has been stolen. More details are being ascertained about the motive," sources in the Indian Air Force told ANI. The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring. The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case. Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices. The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks. Government sources said the Indian Air Force has already briefed the Defence Ministry in this regard and French police authorities are probing the case. India in 2016 signed a Rs 59,800 crore agreement with France for acquiring 36 Rafale combat aircraft for meeting the shortfall in Indian Air Force squadron strength. The incident has come after the long election season in India where allegations of corruption in the Rafale procurement were leveller by Congress President Rahul Gandhi. The Rafale has been critical to IAF plans for securing the country against the aerial and other threats from enemy countries. After the February 27 incident involving an aerial battle between India and Pakistan, IAF Chief BS Dhanoa had suggested that the Pakistanis would not have dared to come close to the LoC in a conflict situation if the country had Rafale planes in its inventory.

Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create&nbsp;three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's&nbsp;security.

As its primary step, the government appointed Sri Lanka war veteran Major General AK Dhingra as the first chief of the armed forces special operations division. The Indian tri-services commando unit will have two-star officers from the Indian Army’s parachute force also known as Paras, the marine commandos MARCOS of Navy and the Garuda unit of the Air Force.

This new division of Indian defence will work under the tri-service integrated defence staff and will have it’s headquarter based in the defence ministry. The division is also expected to be the first choice of the government in matters related to the terror attacks in the country and neighbouring South Asia.&nbsp;

For now, the &nbsp;Army’s special unit is combatting terrorists and conducting special anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

The attempt to set up the armed force special forces division was given final approval by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year during a combined conference of Indian defence forces in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.&nbsp;

India has been facing terror attack threats for decades. After the 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai and several other terrorist operations in Kashmir, the government felt the need for the special unit.

&nbsp;The three new agencies are a small beginning towards injecting jointness and synergy among the Army, Navy and Indian Air Force. The defence ministry says, in the future, the agencies can grow into full-fledged commands.&nbsp;

A country as large as India certainly needs a much-needed collaboration in logistics, planning, procurement and training among the three forces, who often pull in different directions, as well as to provide "single-point'' fighting advises to the government.

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's security.

India's ministry of defence initiated the process to create three new agencies, especially for special operations, cyberspace and space war. These special forces divisions will have nearly 3000 commandos for the country's security. As its primary step, the government appointed Sri Lanka war veteran Major General AK Dhingra as the first chief of the armed forces special operations division. The Indian tri-services commando unit will have two-star officers from the Indian Army’s parachute force also known as Paras, the marine commandos MARCOS of Navy and the Garuda unit of the Air Force. This new division of Indian defence will work under the tri-service integrated defence staff and will have it’s headquarter based in the defence ministry. The division is also expected to be the first choice of the government in matters related to the terror attacks in the country and neighbouring South Asia. For now, the Army’s special unit is combatting terrorists and conducting special anti-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The attempt to set up the armed force special forces division was given final approval by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year during a combined conference of Indian defence forces in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. India has been facing terror attack threats for decades. After the 2008 terrorist attack in Mumbai and several other terrorist operations in Kashmir, the government felt the need for the special unit. The three new agencies are a small beginning towards injecting jointness and synergy among the Army, Navy and Indian Air Force. The defence ministry says, in the future, the agencies can grow into full-fledged commands. A country as large as India certainly needs a much-needed collaboration in logistics, planning, procurement and training among the three forces, who often pull in different directions, as well as to provide "single-point'' fighting advises to the government.

India’s defence set to form new special forces division

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-partially-opens-airspace-for-west-bound-flights-from-india-208317">Pakistan will review re-opening of its airspace for Indian flights</a> on May 15 amid heightened Indo-Pak military tensions, a civil aviation official said Sunday, but a senior minister indicated that the status quo will remain till the elections are over in India.

Pakistan fully closed its airspace after an Indian Air Force strike on a terror camp in Balakot on February 26. However, Pakistan on March 27, opened its airspace for all flights except for New Delhi, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.

"The Pakistani government will decide whether to lift or not its airspace ban for the Indian flights on May 15," Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesperson Mujtaba Baig told PTI on Sunday.

He said that in the May 15 meeting the officials and ministers of all ministries concerned will participate and a decision will be taken about lifting of ban or not on the Pakistani airspace 'operational and overflying' for India. "The decision will be notified any time on May 15," Baig said.

However, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-slams-hotel-attack-as-bid-to-damage-economy-218007">Prime Minister Imran Khan'</a>s close aide and federal science and technology minister Fawad Chaudhry doesn't see any change in the status quo till the conclusion of Lok Sabha polls in India.

"Status quo will remain till the elections are over in India. I don't see any improvement in relations between Pakistan and India till the elections are over and a new government is installed. The ban on airspace by each other I think will also continue till Indian polls," Chaudhry told PTI.

Pakistan and India had closed their airspace for each other on February 26 after rising in tension between the two nuclear countries.

When asked had not the CAA written to Prime Minister Khan about huge financial losses the Pakistan International Airlines, other private airlines and CAA were facing because of the closure of its profitable routes because of the ban of Indian airspace, Baig said: "It is a bilateral matter to be resolved by both governments."

Owing to ban on its airspace by India, Pakistan has suspended its operation for Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur which is causing a loss of millions of rupees per day. PIA used to operate four flights to Kuala Lumpur, two to Bangkok and two to New Delhi.

A senior PIA official told PTI that the national flag carrier's loss is running into billions of rupees because of suspension of our flights especially to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.&nbsp;

"We are not only facing the huge financial loss but also losing our passengers to other airlines," he said, adding that this matter should now be resolved. "If land and rail routes are operational between Pakistan and India, what's wrong with the air route," the official questioned.&nbsp;

The airlines and civil aviation authorities of both the countries are enduring massive losses. The flights between Europe to Far-East are not only facing massive financial losses, but the flight duration has also increased, while the airlines have also increased their ticket prices.&nbsp;

Pakistan in mid-April had opened one of its 11 air routes for west-bound flights from India and airlines such as Air India and Turkish Airlines have started using it. The operating cost for Air India, which flies to destinations in Europe and the US, reportedly has increased significantly as it had to take longer routes due to closure of Pakistan airspace.

Pakistan will review re-opening of its airspace for Indian flights on May 15 amid heightened Indo-Pak military tensions, a civil aviation official said Sunday, but a senior minister indicated that the status quo will remain till the elections are over in India.

Pakistan will review re-opening of its airspace for Indian flights on May 15 amid heightened Indo-Pak military tensions, a civil aviation official said Sunday, but a senior minister indicated that the status quo will remain till the elections are over in India. Pakistan fully closed its airspace after an Indian Air Force strike on a terror camp in Balakot on February 26. However, Pakistan on March 27, opened its airspace for all flights except for New Delhi, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. "The Pakistani government will decide whether to lift or not its airspace ban for the Indian flights on May 15," Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) spokesperson Mujtaba Baig told PTI on Sunday. He said that in the May 15 meeting the officials and ministers of all ministries concerned will participate and a decision will be taken about lifting of ban or not on the Pakistani airspace 'operational and overflying' for India. "The decision will be notified any time on May 15," Baig said. However, Prime Minister Imran Khan's close aide and federal science and technology minister Fawad Chaudhry doesn't see any change in the status quo till the conclusion of Lok Sabha polls in India. "Status quo will remain till the elections are over in India. I don't see any improvement in relations between Pakistan and India till the elections are over and a new government is installed. The ban on airspace by each other I think will also continue till Indian polls," Chaudhry told PTI. Pakistan and India had closed their airspace for each other on February 26 after rising in tension between the two nuclear countries. When asked had not the CAA written to Prime Minister Khan about huge financial losses the Pakistan International Airlines, other private airlines and CAA were facing because of the closure of its profitable routes because of the ban of Indian airspace, Baig said: "It is a bilateral matter to be resolved by both governments." Owing to ban on its airspace by India, Pakistan has suspended its operation for Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur which is causing a loss of millions of rupees per day. PIA used to operate four flights to Kuala Lumpur, two to Bangkok and two to New Delhi. A senior PIA official told PTI that the national flag carrier's loss is running into billions of rupees because of suspension of our flights especially to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. "We are not only facing the huge financial loss but also losing our passengers to other airlines," he said, adding that this matter should now be resolved. "If land and rail routes are operational between Pakistan and India, what's wrong with the air route," the official questioned. The airlines and civil aviation authorities of both the countries are enduring massive losses. The flights between Europe to Far-East are not only facing massive financial losses, but the flight duration has also increased, while the airlines have also increased their ticket prices. Pakistan in mid-April had opened one of its 11 air routes for west-bound flights from India and airlines such as Air India and Turkish Airlines have started using it. The operating cost for Air India, which flies to destinations in Europe and the US, reportedly has increased significantly as it had to take longer routes due to closure of Pakistan airspace.

Pakistan to review re-opening of airspace for Indian flights; minister says no change in status quo

Indian Air Force receives its first Apache Guardian attack helicopter at its production facility in Arizona, in the US. India has signed a contract with the US, for 22 of these choppers.

IAF gets its first AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopter in US

The Indian Air Force received its first Apache Guardian attack helicopter at a production facility of Boeing in Arizona on Friday.

India had in 2015 signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing for 22 Apache helicopters.

Senior IAF officials said the addition of AH-64E (I) Apache helicopter is a significant step towards modernisation of the force's chopper fleet.

The helicopter has been customised to suit IAF's future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain, they said.
<img alt="Apache Guardian attack helicopter" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8eeafe7f-d1ac-4e8b-a8d1-e6a55eebb566" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1.jpg" />
"The first AH-64E (I) - Apache Guardian helicopter was formally handed over to the Indian Air Force at Boeing production facility in Mesa, Arizona, the US on May 10," IAF Spokesperson Group Captain Anupam Banerjee said.

The AH-64E Apache is a leading multi-role attack helicopter and is flown by the US Army.
<img alt="Apache Guardian attack helicopter" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="557452a1-3355-4487-8ab5-9d6352ba8e7d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_2.jpg" />
The IAF had signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing Ltd in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters. The first batch of these helicopters is scheduled to be shipped to India by Jul this year.

"Selected aircrew and ground crew have undergone training at the training facilities at US Army base Fort Rucker, Alabama. This personnel will lead the operationalisation of the Apache fleet in the IAF," the IAF said in a statement.
<img alt="Apache Guardian attack helicopter" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7b7e231-d7d6-4b4a-a135-461aba0f1def" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/3_3.jpg" />
It said the helicopter has been customised to suit the IAF's future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain. 
"The helicopter has the capability to carry out precision attacks at standoff ranges and operate in hostile airspace with threats from the ground," the IAF said.

It said the ability of these helicopters, to transmit and receive the battlefield picture, too and from the weapon systems through data networking makes it a lethal acquisition.

"These attack helicopters will provide a significant edge in any future joint operations in support of land forces," the IAF added.

Additionally, the Defence Ministry in 2017 approved the procurement of six Apache helicopters along with weapons systems from Boeing at a cost of Rs 4,168 crore for the Army. This will be its first fleet of attack choppers. 
Fuselages for this Army order will be produced by Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited, a joint venture between Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems in Hyderabad.

(With inputs from PTI)

The Indian Air Force received its first Apache Guardian attack helicopter at a production facility of Boeing in Arizona on Friday. India had in 2015 signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing for 22 Apache helicopters.

The Indian Air Force received its first Apache Guardian attack helicopter at a production facility of Boeing in Arizona on Friday. India had in 2015 signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing for 22 Apache helicopters. Senior IAF officials said the addition of AH-64E (I) Apache helicopter is a significant step towards modernisation of the force's chopper fleet. The helicopter has been customised to suit IAF's future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain, they said. "The first AH-64E (I) - Apache Guardian helicopter was formally handed over to the Indian Air Force at Boeing production facility in Mesa, Arizona, the US on May 10," IAF Spokesperson Group Captain Anupam Banerjee said. The AH-64E Apache is a leading multi-role attack helicopter and is flown by the US Army. The IAF had signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing Ltd in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters. The first batch of these helicopters is scheduled to be shipped to India by Jul this year. "Selected aircrew and ground crew have undergone training at the training facilities at US Army base Fort Rucker, Alabama. This personnel will lead the operationalisation of the Apache fleet in the IAF," the IAF said in a statement. It said the helicopter has been customised to suit the IAF's future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain. "The helicopter has the capability to carry out precision attacks at standoff ranges and operate in hostile airspace with threats from the ground," the IAF said. It said the ability of these helicopters, to transmit and receive the battlefield picture, too and from the weapon systems through data networking makes it a lethal acquisition. "These attack helicopters will provide a significant edge in any future joint operations in support of land forces," the IAF added. Additionally, the Defence Ministry in 2017 approved the procurement of six Apache helicopters along with weapons systems from Boeing at a cost of Rs 4,168 crore for the Army. This will be its first fleet of attack choppers. Fuselages for this Army order will be produced by Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited, a joint venture between Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems in Hyderabad. (With inputs from PTI)

IAF gets its first Apache Guardian attack helicopter at Boeing production unit in US

An Indian Air Force(IAF) An-32 aircraft overran a runway at Mumbai airport on &nbsp;Tuesday night.

The transport plane was departing for Yelahanka air in Bengaluru, Kartanaka when the incident occurred.

"We confirm, departing Air force aircraft had runway excursion at 2339 hours at RWY 27," Airport authorities said.

No injuries were reported even as authorities confirmed that runway 27 where the incident occurred wasn't available for operations.

The AN-32 aircraft built during the Soviet era has been IAF's all-weather friend transporting men and material during crisis situations and helping India's disaster-hit zones during earthquakes and floods.

The aircraft is primarily used to transport cargo over long and short distances and it also helps in firefighting and medical emergencies.

Due to the incident, aircraft movement was diverted to the secondary runway, the official of the Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) said.

Mumbai's&nbsp;Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, the country's second busiest airport after New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport(IGI), has two crossing runways -&nbsp;0927 (the main runway) and 1432 (the secondary runway) which together handle a little over 1,000 arrivals and departures per day.

A large part of the operations is carried out from the main runway.

An Indian Air Force(IAF) An-32 aircraft overran a runway at Mumbai airport on Tuesday night. The transport plane was departing for Yelahanka air in Bengaluru, Kartanaka when the incident occurred.

An Indian Air Force(IAF) An-32 aircraft overran a runway at Mumbai airport on Tuesday night. The transport plane was departing for Yelahanka air in Bengaluru, Kartanaka when the incident occurred. "We confirm, departing Air force aircraft had runway excursion at 2339 hours at RWY 27," Airport authorities said. No injuries were reported even as authorities confirmed that runway 27 where the incident occurred wasn't available for operations. The AN-32 aircraft built during the Soviet era has been IAF's all-weather friend transporting men and material during crisis situations and helping India's disaster-hit zones during earthquakes and floods. The aircraft is primarily used to transport cargo over long and short distances and it also helps in firefighting and medical emergencies. Due to the incident, aircraft movement was diverted to the secondary runway, the official of the Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) said. Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, the country's second busiest airport after New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport(IGI), has two crossing runways - 0927 (the main runway) and 1432 (the secondary runway) which together handle a little over 1,000 arrivals and departures per day. A large part of the operations is carried out from the main runway.

IAF's An-32 aircraft overruns runway at Mumbai airport; no injuries reported

Indian Air Force(IAF) on Thursday flew frontline fighter jets from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-carries-out-major-readiness-exercise-along-pak-border-203434">civilian airfields in&nbsp;Kolkata</a>, Guwahati and Andal in eastern India.

IAF's SU-30MKI aircraft took off from Kolkata and Guwahati airfields and Hawk jets from Andal airfield, the Air Force said.

The fighters carried out both day and night flying operations during the exercise.&nbsp;

"The aim was to validate the fighter operating procedure, familiarise the crew with airfields and exercise coordination with civil agencies for such operations," it added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The two day operations were conducted on 01 &amp; 02 May 19. The frontline SU-30MKI aircraft operated from Kolkata &amp; Guwahati, and the Hawk jets from Andal airfield. The fighters carried out both day and night flying operations during the exercise.<a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/proshillong?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@proshillong</a> <a href="https://t.co/lGdX2uy2zz">pic.twitter.com/lGdX2uy2zz</a>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1123986490848153600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The drills were an exercise in war preparedness.&nbsp;The IAF has been trying to be flexible for any eventuality where it may need to shift operating bases at a moment's notice.

The Air Force is also said to be overhauling its capabilities to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/results-at-balakot-would-have-been-further-in-our-favour-had-we-inducted-rafale-iaf-chief-dhanoa-210666">accommodate the Rafale jets</a> which are due to arrive in September.

The two-day operation from May 1st and May 2nd took place as part of day and night flying exercise.

In March, the IAF had carried out major readiness exercise over the Punjab and Jammu sectors in the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan over the Balakot air strikes.

During the exercise, IAF jets&nbsp;including frontline fighter aircraft flew at supersonic speeds in the border districts including Amritsar in Punjab in the western sector.

IAF has maintained high level of preparedness post-Balakot with Pakistan threat having abated in recent months.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Indian Air Force(IAF) on Thursday flew frontline fighter jets from civilian airfields in Kolkata, Guwahati and Andal in eastern India. IAF's SU-30MKI aircraft took off from Kolkata and Guwahati airfields and Hawk jets from Andal airfield, the Air Force said.

Indian Air Force(IAF) on Thursday flew frontline fighter jets from civilian airfields in Kolkata, Guwahati and Andal in eastern India. IAF's SU-30MKI aircraft took off from Kolkata and Guwahati airfields and Hawk jets from Andal airfield, the Air Force said. The fighters carried out both day and night flying operations during the exercise. "The aim was to validate the fighter operating procedure, familiarise the crew with airfields and exercise coordination with civil agencies for such operations," it added. The two day operations were conducted on 01 & 02 May 19. The frontline SU-30MKI aircraft operated from Kolkata & Guwahati, and the Hawk jets from Andal airfield. The fighters carried out both day and night flying operations during the exercise.@DefenceMinIndia@proshillong pic.twitter.com/lGdX2uy2zz — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) May 2, 2019 × The drills were an exercise in war preparedness. The IAF has been trying to be flexible for any eventuality where it may need to shift operating bases at a moment's notice. The Air Force is also said to be overhauling its capabilities to accommodate the Rafale jets which are due to arrive in September. The two-day operation from May 1st and May 2nd took place as part of day and night flying exercise. In March, the IAF had carried out major readiness exercise over the Punjab and Jammu sectors in the wake of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan over the Balakot air strikes. During the exercise, IAF jets including frontline fighter aircraft flew at supersonic speeds in the border districts including Amritsar in Punjab in the western sector. IAF has maintained high level of preparedness post-Balakot with Pakistan threat having abated in recent months.

IAF's SU-30, hawk jets carry out drills in civilian airfields in eastern India

The Defence Ministry will initiate the process to appoint the next chief of the Indian Air Force after the formation of the new government at the centre.

"There are still five months left for the present Chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa to retire from service as he is scheduled to retire on September 30 this year. The process to appoint the next chief would be initiated after the formation of the new government at the centre after the elections," tops Defence Ministry sources said.

Generally, the process to appoint the new chiefs of services starts three to four months prior from the due date of retirement of the incumbent.

However, the timing of the announcement differs in a case to case basis.

While appointing General Bipin Rawat as the chief of Indian Army in 2016, the announcement was made about two weeks before the retirement of his predecessor.

In the Navy chief's appointment, the government made the announcement of selecting Vice Admiral Karambir Singh as the successor of Admiral Sunil Lanba almost 10 weeks in advance.

Defence Ministry sources said the government always takes into account seniority and merit while making appointments in such senior positions.

A large number of appointments at senior positions in the Army are going to come up in the next few months including the office of the Vice Chief of Army Staff.

Sources said a vacancy in the Army Commander position is likely to come up in the eastern sector as the incumbent may be moved to a higher office.

The Narendra Modi government has not shown faith in the line of succession in the armed forces as the top security brass feels that such a policy may demotivate the other commanders from giving their 100 per cent while on the other hand, it can create factions in the forces.&nbsp;

The Defence Ministry will initiate the process to appoint the next chief of the Indian Air Force after the formation of the new government at the centre. "There are still five months left for the present Chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa to retire from service as he is scheduled to retire on September 30 this year.

The Defence Ministry will initiate the process to appoint the next chief of the Indian Air Force after the formation of the new government at the centre. "There are still five months left for the present Chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa to retire from service as he is scheduled to retire on September 30 this year. The process to appoint the next chief would be initiated after the formation of the new government at the centre after the elections," tops Defence Ministry sources said. Generally, the process to appoint the new chiefs of services starts three to four months prior from the due date of retirement of the incumbent. However, the timing of the announcement differs in a case to case basis. While appointing General Bipin Rawat as the chief of Indian Army in 2016, the announcement was made about two weeks before the retirement of his predecessor. In the Navy chief's appointment, the government made the announcement of selecting Vice Admiral Karambir Singh as the successor of Admiral Sunil Lanba almost 10 weeks in advance. Defence Ministry sources said the government always takes into account seniority and merit while making appointments in such senior positions. A large number of appointments at senior positions in the Army are going to come up in the next few months including the office of the Vice Chief of Army Staff. Sources said a vacancy in the Army Commander position is likely to come up in the eastern sector as the incumbent may be moved to a higher office. The Narendra Modi government has not shown faith in the line of succession in the armed forces as the top security brass feels that such a policy may demotivate the other commanders from giving their 100 per cent while on the other hand, it can create factions in the forces.

Defence Ministry to initiate IAF chief's appointment process after formation of next government: Sources

Pakistan's attempt to take a group of international media personnel and foreign diplomats on a tour of Balakot, where India carried out a counter-terror operation on JeM's biggest training camp, is being criticised widely.

Lawrence Sellin, former Colonel in the US Army, has said that it was a crude attempt by Pakistan to influence the Indian election. "It reminds me of the heavy-handed tactics used in Soviet Union in 1930s in terms of peopaganda. This visit occurred six weeks after the event - there was a lot of time for Pakistan to sanitise the site," Sellin told WION.

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But the journalists and diplomats didn’t get enough time to make any kind of informed assessment. They were hurried away by the Pakistani army after less than half an hour. <a href="https://t.co/qoY8uYdBN6">pic.twitter.com/qoY8uYdBN6</a>
— Reuters India (@ReutersIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReutersIndia/status/1116298507302916097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The group of journalists was flown from Islamabad in a helicopter to Jabba in Balakot on Wednesday. The visitors trekked for about one-and-a-half hour to reach the madrassa on the top of a mountain surrounded by lush green trees. The group was taken to a madrassa where about 150 students were present and were being taught Quran.

"It was also known from the locals that the madrassa which was there was closed up until very recently and these local boys showed up to populate the madrassa, basically it seemed for this event. And the visitors to this site were only allowed not longer than 30 minutes. There was actually absolutely no way for those visitors, those observers to determine anything," Sellin said.

India has a right to be angry because it looks deliberate, he added.

The visit by the group lasted for about 20 minutes and the participants were allowed to take pictures. Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor held formal and informal chat with the journalists.

The group, while going up, also saw a ditch on a hillside where India jets dropped its payload.

This was the first formal visit of foreign media and diplomats to the place where scores of terrorists were killed in Indian airstrike on February 26.

Watch what Sellin has to say about journalists' visit to Balakot:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mzQvW8wrwYM" width="560"></iframe>

&nbsp;

Pakistan's attempt to take a group of international media personnel and foreign diplomats on a tour of Balakot, where India carried out a counter-terror operation on JeM's biggest training camp, is being criticised widely.

Pakistan's attempt to take a group of international media personnel and foreign diplomats on a tour of Balakot, where India carried out a counter-terror operation on JeM's biggest training camp, is being criticised widely. Lawrence Sellin, former Colonel in the US Army, has said that it was a crude attempt by Pakistan to influence the Indian election. "It reminds me of the heavy-handed tactics used in Soviet Union in 1930s in terms of peopaganda. This visit occurred six weeks after the event - there was a lot of time for Pakistan to sanitise the site," Sellin told WION. But the journalists and diplomats didn’t get enough time to make any kind of informed assessment. They were hurried away by the Pakistani army after less than half an hour. pic.twitter.com/qoY8uYdBN6 — Reuters India (@ReutersIndia) April 11, 2019 × The group of journalists was flown from Islamabad in a helicopter to Jabba in Balakot on Wednesday. The visitors trekked for about one-and-a-half hour to reach the madrassa on the top of a mountain surrounded by lush green trees. The group was taken to a madrassa where about 150 students were present and were being taught Quran. "It was also known from the locals that the madrassa which was there was closed up until very recently and these local boys showed up to populate the madrassa, basically it seemed for this event. And the visitors to this site were only allowed not longer than 30 minutes. There was actually absolutely no way for those visitors, those observers to determine anything," Sellin said. India has a right to be angry because it looks deliberate, he added. The visit by the group lasted for about 20 minutes and the participants were allowed to take pictures. Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor held formal and informal chat with the journalists. The group, while going up, also saw a ditch on a hillside where India jets dropped its payload. This was the first formal visit of foreign media and diplomats to the place where scores of terrorists were killed in Indian airstrike on February 26. Watch what Sellin has to say about journalists' visit to Balakot:

Journalists' Balakot visit: Crude attempt by Pak to influence Indian polls, says ex-US armyman

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that it is fair to raise questions in a democracy and there is no harm in asking for details or proof from a government with regard to actions taken by it but it is unfair to ask security forces to give proof.

While responding to a question of why people are branded as "anti-national" and "Tukde Tukde" gang, if they ask for proof of Balakot air strike and Surgical strikes, the Home Minister, in an exclusive interview to ANI, said,&nbsp;"No one is termed anti-national for asking questions, we always give answers to relevant questions...Why should one ask for proof from the Indian Air Force, who only bombed the terrorist centre? Should they count the bodies and give proof?"

On the question of opposition's allegation of politicisation of armed forces, the Home Minister said,&nbsp;"There should not be any politicisation of any system of the government and we never think of doing such a thing...Our Army and other government systems belonged to the country, not to any political party."

He added that the air strike by the IAF in Pakistan's Balakot took place on the basis of credible intelligence input.

"During Balakot air strike, the IAF targeted terrorist training centres in Pakistan and ensured that no harm is done to civilians there. We took precautions while taking revenge of Pulwama terror attack, we made sure that Pakistan's Sovereignty and Integrity is not compromised and only terrorists are targeted. We did not attack Pakistan's army or harm the innocent civilians, we only targeted terrorists," he said.

"As a home minister of the country I am saying that the operation in Balakot took place on the basis of credible intelligence input," he added.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that it is fair to raise questions in a democracy and there is no harm in asking for details or proof from a government with regard to actions taken by it but it is unfair to ask security forces to give proof.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said that it is fair to raise questions in a democracy and there is no harm in asking for details or proof from a government with regard to actions taken by it but it is unfair to ask security forces to give proof. While responding to a question of why people are branded as "anti-national" and "Tukde Tukde" gang, if they ask for proof of Balakot air strike and Surgical strikes, the Home Minister, in an exclusive interview to ANI, said, "No one is termed anti-national for asking questions, we always give answers to relevant questions...Why should one ask for proof from the Indian Air Force, who only bombed the terrorist centre? Should they count the bodies and give proof?" On the question of opposition's allegation of politicisation of armed forces, the Home Minister said, "There should not be any politicisation of any system of the government and we never think of doing such a thing...Our Army and other government systems belonged to the country, not to any political party." He added that the air strike by the IAF in Pakistan's Balakot took place on the basis of credible intelligence input. "During Balakot air strike, the IAF targeted terrorist training centres in Pakistan and ensured that no harm is done to civilians there. We took precautions while taking revenge of Pulwama terror attack, we made sure that Pakistan's Sovereignty and Integrity is not compromised and only terrorists are targeted. We did not attack Pakistan's army or harm the innocent civilians, we only targeted terrorists," he said. "As a home minister of the country I am saying that the operation in Balakot took place on the basis of credible intelligence input," he added.

Ask questions on Balakot air strike to government, do not seek proof from security forces: Rajnath Singh

IAF gives further proof on downed Pakistan F-16

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-asserts-it-has-irrefutable-evidence-of-shooting-down-pakistan-f-16-shows-radar-images-208809">IAF asserts it has 'irrefutable evidence' of shooting down Pakistan F-16, shows radar images</a>

The Indian Air Force on Monday said it has "irrefutable evidence" of shooting down an F-16 aircraft of Pakistan Air Force during the February 27 aerial combat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-troop-killed-in-clash-with-govt-security-during-khartoum-protests-208813">Sudanese troop killed in </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-troop-killed-in-clash-with-govt-security-during-khartoum-protests-208813">clash</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-troop-killed-in-clash-with-govt-security-during-khartoum-protests-208813"> with government security during Khartoum protests</a>

A Sudanese soldier on Monday died allegedly following a shootout with pro-government security forces, which were attempting to disperse protesters staging a sit-in in the capital Khartoum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-high-court-rejects-vijay-mallyas-appeal-against-the-extradition-order-208774">UK High Court rejects Vijay Mallya's appeal against the extradition order</a>

In a big blow to Vijay Mallya, London’s High Court has rejected fugitive liquor baron's application for permission to appeal against the extradition order against him.&nbsp;

Mallya, 63, had filed the application in the High Court after UK's home secretary Sajid Javid signed off on a Westminster Magistrates' Court order for his extradition to face the Indian courts back in February.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vice-admiral-bimal-verma-moves-armed-forces-tribunal-after-being-superseded-for-naval-chief-post-208768">Vice Admiral Bimal Verma moves Armed Forces Tribunal after being superseded for Naval Chief post</a>

Vice Admiral Bimal Verma on Monday moved the Armed Forces Tribunal against his supersession and appointment of Vice Admiral Karambir Singh as the next Chief of Indian Navy.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-needs-tax-cuts-in-response-to-yellow-vests-pm-208807">France needs tax cuts in response to 'yellow vests': PM Edouard Philippe</a>

The French government must implement bold tax cuts, the prime minister said Monday, after a mass public consultation called in the wake of "yellow vest" protests that shook President Emmanuel Macron.

IAF asserts it has 'irrefutable evidence' of shooting down Pakistan F-16, shows radar images The Indian Air Force on Monday said it has "irrefutable evidence" of shooting down an F-16 aircraft of Pakistan Air Force during the February 27 aerial combat.

IAF asserts it has 'irrefutable evidence' of shooting down Pakistan F-16, shows radar images The Indian Air Force on Monday said it has "irrefutable evidence" of shooting down an F-16 aircraft of Pakistan Air Force during the February 27 aerial combat. Sudanese troop killed in clash with government security during Khartoum protests A Sudanese soldier on Monday died allegedly following a shootout with pro-government security forces, which were attempting to disperse protesters staging a sit-in in the capital Khartoum. UK High Court rejects Vijay Mallya's appeal against the extradition order In a big blow to Vijay Mallya, London’s High Court has rejected fugitive liquor baron's application for permission to appeal against the extradition order against him. Mallya, 63, had filed the application in the High Court after UK's home secretary Sajid Javid signed off on a Westminster Magistrates' Court order for his extradition to face the Indian courts back in February. Vice Admiral Bimal Verma moves Armed Forces Tribunal after being superseded for Naval Chief post Vice Admiral Bimal Verma on Monday moved the Armed Forces Tribunal against his supersession and appointment of Vice Admiral Karambir Singh as the next Chief of Indian Navy. France needs tax cuts in response to 'yellow vests': PM Edouard Philippe The French government must implement bold tax cuts, the prime minister said Monday, after a mass public consultation called in the wake of "yellow vest" protests that shook President Emmanuel Macron.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-carries-out-major-readiness-exercise-along-pak-border-203434">Indian Air Force (IAF)</a> has dismissed a US media report that says no Pakistan Air force F16 were downed on February 27 when Islamabad attacked Indian military installations.&nbsp;

According to Foreign Policy magazine, Pakistan had invited the US to physically count the number of F16s and all fighter planes were accounted for.

At 10 am on February 27, Pakistan Air Force's &nbsp;F16s, JF 17s and Mirage III/V aircraft were picked by the IAF radars. They were intercepted by IAF Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000 and Mig 21 Bison fighters guided by ground radars and AWACS.&nbsp;

The Air Force, in a statement, said, "during the aerial engagement that followed, one MIG 21 Bison of the IAF shot down Pak's F16 in Nowshera sector".

It added that the ejection took place from a Pakistani F16 on that day and electronic signature confirmed that.

The IAF said, "sitting ejection" at two different places took place on February 27, "one was an IAF MIG 21 Bison and the other a Pak aircraft. Electronic signatures gathered by us indicate that Pak aircraft was an F16".

India has already raised the matter with the US regarding the use of F16s given by Washington to Islamabad. New Delhi had provided evidence of the use of F16 by showing the use of the AMRAAM missile that can only be deployed on F16.

The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday said, "whether and under what circumstances F16 is or is not allowed will have to come from the US. The fact of the matter is that it was used and we understand as per the understanding of the use of F16 between US and Pak, it should have not been done and this is why had flagged it with the US."

The US state department has said that it is "taking a look" on the use of F16 by Pakistan on February 27.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has dismissed a US media report that says no Pakistan Air force F16 were downed on February 27 when Islamabad attacked Indian military installations.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has dismissed a US media report that says no Pakistan Air force F16 were downed on February 27 when Islamabad attacked Indian military installations. According to Foreign Policy magazine, Pakistan had invited the US to physically count the number of F16s and all fighter planes were accounted for. At 10 am on February 27, Pakistan Air Force's F16s, JF 17s and Mirage III/V aircraft were picked by the IAF radars. They were intercepted by IAF Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Mirage 2000 and Mig 21 Bison fighters guided by ground radars and AWACS. The Air Force, in a statement, said, "during the aerial engagement that followed, one MIG 21 Bison of the IAF shot down Pak's F16 in Nowshera sector". It added that the ejection took place from a Pakistani F16 on that day and electronic signature confirmed that. The IAF said, "sitting ejection" at two different places took place on February 27, "one was an IAF MIG 21 Bison and the other a Pak aircraft. Electronic signatures gathered by us indicate that Pak aircraft was an F16". India has already raised the matter with the US regarding the use of F16s given by Washington to Islamabad. New Delhi had provided evidence of the use of F16 by showing the use of the AMRAAM missile that can only be deployed on F16. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday said, "whether and under what circumstances F16 is or is not allowed will have to come from the US. The fact of the matter is that it was used and we understand as per the understanding of the use of F16 between US and Pak, it should have not been done and this is why had flagged it with the US." The US state department has said that it is "taking a look" on the use of F16 by Pakistan on February 27.

Indian Air Force rubbishes US media report, says MiG 21 Bison shot down Pak's F16 in Nowshera

The Indian Air Force on Monday scrambled two Sukhoi-30 fighter jets after sighting a Pakistani drone along the Indo-Pak border in the Khemkaran sector in Punjab, official sources said.

Two Pakistani F-16 fighter aircraft were also seen close to the border after the incident.

The sources said the Sukhoi-30 MKI jets were deployed soon after the Pakistani unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was seen hovering over the border.

The drone soon retreated to the Pakistani side after the jets were scrambled. The incident took place around 3:10 PM.

There have been a series of incidents of Pakistani drones coming close to the Indo-Pak border in various areas in the last four weeks following the Balakot air strikes.

Last month, a UAV which intruded into Rajasthan's Ganganagar was shot down by the Army. Also last month, a Sukhoi-30 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force shot down a

Pakistani military drone in Bikaner sector of the Indo-Pak border using an air-to-air missile.

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian Air Force fighter jets bombed terror group JeM's training camp near Balakot in Pakistan on February 26.

Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations the next day. However, the IAF thwarted their plans.

The Indian strike on the JeM camp came 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force on Monday scrambled two Sukhoi-30 fighter jets after sighting a Pakistani drone along the Indo-Pak border in the Khemkaran sector in Punjab, official sources said.

The Indian Air Force on Monday scrambled two Sukhoi-30 fighter jets after sighting a Pakistani drone along the Indo-Pak border in the Khemkaran sector in Punjab, official sources said. Two Pakistani F-16 fighter aircraft were also seen close to the border after the incident. The sources said the Sukhoi-30 MKI jets were deployed soon after the Pakistani unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was seen hovering over the border. The drone soon retreated to the Pakistani side after the jets were scrambled. The incident took place around 3:10 PM. There have been a series of incidents of Pakistani drones coming close to the Indo-Pak border in various areas in the last four weeks following the Balakot air strikes. Last month, a UAV which intruded into Rajasthan's Ganganagar was shot down by the Army. Also last month, a Sukhoi-30 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force shot down a Pakistani military drone in Bikaner sector of the Indo-Pak border using an air-to-air missile. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian Air Force fighter jets bombed terror group JeM's training camp near Balakot in Pakistan on February 26. Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations the next day. However, the IAF thwarted their plans. The Indian strike on the JeM camp came 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed.

Indian Air Force scrambles Sukhoi-30 jets after sighting Pakistani drone

&nbsp;A MiG 27 aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed on Sunday near Jodhpur in Rajasthan but the pilot ejected safely, official sources said.

The MiG 27 UPG jet took off from Utarlai airforce base and the jet experienced engine problems leading to the crash at around 11:45 AM in Sirohi district about 120 km south of Jodhpur, they said, adding that the pilot ejected safely.

The sources said a court of inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports indicate no loss of life and property on the ground.

The jet was on a routine mission, they said.&nbsp;

The fighter aircraft crashed in Shivganj police station area near Godana dam in Sirohi district. Police and administrative officials have reached the spot to cordon off the area, Sirohi district SP, Kalyan Mal Meena, told PTI.

A MiG 27 aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed on Sunday near Jodhpur in Rajasthan but the pilot ejected safely, official sources said. The MiG 27 UPG jet took off from Utarlai airforce base and the jet experienced engine problems leading to the crash at around 11:45 AM in Sirohi district about 120 km south of Jodhpur, they said, adding that the pilot ejected safely.

A MiG 27 aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed on Sunday near Jodhpur in Rajasthan but the pilot ejected safely, official sources said. The MiG 27 UPG jet took off from Utarlai airforce base and the jet experienced engine problems leading to the crash at around 11:45 AM in Sirohi district about 120 km south of Jodhpur, they said, adding that the pilot ejected safely. The sources said a court of inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports indicate no loss of life and property on the ground. The jet was on a routine mission, they said. The fighter aircraft crashed in Shivganj police station area near Godana dam in Sirohi district. Police and administrative officials have reached the spot to cordon off the area, Sirohi district SP, Kalyan Mal Meena, told PTI.

Rajasthan: IAF's MiG 27 aircraft crashes near Jodhpur

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday.

The briefing, to be held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on April 4, will be attended by the members of standing committees of the National Assembly and Senate on defence, Dawn reported.

General Bajwa will "brief the parliamentarians on hostile situation at the Line of Control", it said.

The paper said that it will be the second briefing by the army chief to the parliamentarians over one month.

Earlier, parliamentarians were briefed in an in-camera session held at Parliament House on February 27, the day the Pakistan Air Force carried out a raid in India. However, Prime Minister Imran Khan did not attend the briefing.

This week's briefing would be attended by a number of prominent leaders from the opposition parties, including former ministers, as they are members of the two committees.

According to a notification issued by the National Assembly Secretariat, chairman of the NA committee Amjad Ali Khan would lead the delegation of members of the National Assembly, the lower house.

Defence Minister Pervez Khattak has also been invited as he is an ex-officio member of both standing committees.

The lawmakers have been told to assemble at Gate No 1 of Parliament House at 10 a.M. And those who intend to proceed directly to GHQ have been asked to provide registration numbers of their vehicles before the meeting.

A notification issued by the Senate Secretariat says that Chairman of Senate standing committee on defence Azam Swati will lead the Senate members.

A few days ago Prime Minister Khan had said that the "possibility of a misadventure" from India could not be ignored.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the armed forces needed to remain alert.

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the February 14 attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pulwama that killed 40 CRPF soldiers.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside

Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an Indian pilot, who was handed over to India later.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday. The briefing, to be held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on April 4, will be attended by the members of standing committees of the National Assembly and Senate on defence, Dawn reported. General Bajwa will "brief the parliamentarians on hostile situation at the Line of Control", it said. The paper said that it will be the second briefing by the army chief to the parliamentarians over one month. Earlier, parliamentarians were briefed in an in-camera session held at Parliament House on February 27, the day the Pakistan Air Force carried out a raid in India. However, Prime Minister Imran Khan did not attend the briefing. This week's briefing would be attended by a number of prominent leaders from the opposition parties, including former ministers, as they are members of the two committees. According to a notification issued by the National Assembly Secretariat, chairman of the NA committee Amjad Ali Khan would lead the delegation of members of the National Assembly, the lower house. Defence Minister Pervez Khattak has also been invited as he is an ex-officio member of both standing committees. The lawmakers have been told to assemble at Gate No 1 of Parliament House at 10 a.M. And those who intend to proceed directly to GHQ have been asked to provide registration numbers of their vehicles before the meeting. A notification issued by the Senate Secretariat says that Chairman of Senate standing committee on defence Azam Swati will lead the Senate members. A few days ago Prime Minister Khan had said that the "possibility of a misadventure" from India could not be ignored. Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the armed forces needed to remain alert. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the February 14 attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pulwama that killed 40 CRPF soldiers. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an Indian pilot, who was handed over to India later.

Pakistan Army chief to brief parliamentarians on 'hostile situation' at LoC

Indian Air Force officially inducts Chinook heavy-lift choppers

Boost for high-altitude operations: Indian Air Force inducts four Chinook helicopters

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said Monday that once the Rafale is inducted into the Indian Air Force, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-gamechanger-hal-still-deal-iaf-chief-dhanoa-169154">Pakistan "will not come anywhere near the LoC"</a>.&nbsp;

He added that "the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold" and that Pakistan will not "have an answer" to the Rafale.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force chief was speaking in Chandigarh at the induction into the air force of the first Chinook helicopters. This first unit of Chinooks — India took possession of them from Boeing on February 1 — will be deployed in Chandigarh.&nbsp;

Dhanoa said Monday that another unit would be deployed in Dinjan in Assam.&nbsp;

"Induction of Chinook will be a game changer the way Rafale is going to be in the fighter fleet," Dhanoa said on Monday.&nbsp;

On February 27 this year, the Indian and Pakistani air forces had engaged in a dogfight for the first time in over 40 years.&nbsp;

Both air forces lost a plane each — the Indians a MiG-21 Bison and the Pakistanis an F-16.&nbsp;

A day earlier, on February 26, the IAF had conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. The strike had been retaliation for the suicide attack on a security convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-convoy-attacked-in-jammu-kashmirs-pulwama-death-toll-climbs-to-40-197468">that left at least 40 CRPF personnel dead</a>.&nbsp;

On February 27, Pakistan dropped bombs on Indian territory from its side of the Line of Control. Pakistan said it was proving its "deterrence capabilities".&nbsp;

India said the bombs were aimed at military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said that the February 26 air strike would have been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-country-missing-rafale-slams-opposition-for-doubting-balakot-air-strike-200822">more effective</a> if India had had the Rafale.&nbsp;

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Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa: When the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> comes in, the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold,and they (Pak) will not come anywhere near the LoC or the border,with the kind of of capability that we will posses, for which presently they(Pak) don't have an answer <a href="https://t.co/mVnM62kQyz">pic.twitter.com/mVnM62kQyz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1110053548111351810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The previous UPA government had signed a deal with Dassault Aviation — the maker of the Rafale — to buy 126 of the planes. Then, in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra announced a new government-to-government deal to purchase 36 of the planes.&nbsp;

India is still to get possession of the fighter planes. Indian Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said the first planes will arrive in India in September 2019.&nbsp;

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said Monday that once the Rafale is inducted into the Indian Air Force, Pakistan "will not come anywhere near the LoC". He added that "the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold" and that Pakistan will not "have an answer" to the Rafale.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said Monday that once the Rafale is inducted into the Indian Air Force, Pakistan "will not come anywhere near the LoC". He added that "the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold" and that Pakistan will not "have an answer" to the Rafale. The Indian Air Force chief was speaking in Chandigarh at the induction into the air force of the first Chinook helicopters. This first unit of Chinooks — India took possession of them from Boeing on February 1 — will be deployed in Chandigarh. Dhanoa said Monday that another unit would be deployed in Dinjan in Assam. "Induction of Chinook will be a game changer the way Rafale is going to be in the fighter fleet," Dhanoa said on Monday. On February 27 this year, the Indian and Pakistani air forces had engaged in a dogfight for the first time in over 40 years. Both air forces lost a plane each — the Indians a MiG-21 Bison and the Pakistanis an F-16. A day earlier, on February 26, the IAF had conducted an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunwa province. The strike had been retaliation for the suicide attack on a security convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that left at least 40 CRPF personnel dead. On February 27, Pakistan dropped bombs on Indian territory from its side of the Line of Control. Pakistan said it was proving its "deterrence capabilities". India said the bombs were aimed at military installations but that they missed their targets. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also said that the February 26 air strike would have been more effective if India had had the Rafale. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa: When the #Rafale comes in, the deterrence of our air defence will increase manifold,and they (Pak) will not come anywhere near the LoC or the border,with the kind of of capability that we will posses, for which presently they(Pak) don't have an answer pic.twitter.com/mVnM62kQyz — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2019 × The previous UPA government had signed a deal with Dassault Aviation — the maker of the Rafale — to buy 126 of the planes. Then, in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra announced a new government-to-government deal to purchase 36 of the planes. India is still to get possession of the fighter planes. Indian Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said the first planes will arrive in India in September 2019.

When Rafale comes, Pakistan will not come anywhere near LoC: IAF chief BS Dhanoa

The Indian Air Force (IAF) inducted the first unit of four <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-chinook-helicopter-handed-over-to-india-at-philadelphia-boeings-facility-194538">Chinook heavy-lift choppers</a> on Monday in Chandigarh, where the helicopters have been deployed. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa presided over the induction ceremony.

''Country faces multiple security challenges, we require vertical lift capability across a diversified terrain. Chinook has been procured with India specific enhancements; it's a national asset,'' Dhanoa said.

''Chinook helicopter can carry out military operations, not only in day but during night too; another unit will be created for the east in Dinjan (Assam). Induction of Chinook will be a game changer the way Rafale is going to be in the fighter fleet,'' Dhanoa added.

India has paid close to $1.5 billion for 15 of the helicopters which will be used to deploy troops and machinery at high-altitude locations.

India was officially handed over the first of the Chinook helicopters on February 1. The handover took place at Boeing's facility in Philadelphia in the presence of Indian ambassador to the US Harsh Shringla.

The Chinook is operated by 18 other defence forces around the world.

Large sections of the Chinook fuselage, interestingly, are being manufactured in India.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Air Force (IAF) inducted the first unit of four Chinook heavy-lift choppers on Monday in Chandigarh, where the helicopters have been deployed. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa presided over the induction ceremony.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) inducted the first unit of four Chinook heavy-lift choppers on Monday in Chandigarh, where the helicopters have been deployed. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa presided over the induction ceremony. ''Country faces multiple security challenges, we require vertical lift capability across a diversified terrain. Chinook has been procured with India specific enhancements; it's a national asset,'' Dhanoa said. ''Chinook helicopter can carry out military operations, not only in day but during night too; another unit will be created for the east in Dinjan (Assam). Induction of Chinook will be a game changer the way Rafale is going to be in the fighter fleet,'' Dhanoa added. India has paid close to $1.5 billion for 15 of the helicopters which will be used to deploy troops and machinery at high-altitude locations. India was officially handed over the first of the Chinook helicopters on February 1. The handover took place at Boeing's facility in Philadelphia in the presence of Indian ambassador to the US Harsh Shringla. The Chinook is operated by 18 other defence forces around the world. Large sections of the Chinook fuselage, interestingly, are being manufactured in India. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Air Force inducts first unit of four Chinook choppers, chief BS Dhanoa calls it 'game changer'

Indian Air Force inducts four heavy-lift Chinook helicopter

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