In a recent press conference, Air Chief Marshal Singh announced an exciting opportunity for aspiring soldiers, revealing the Indian Air Force is ready to induct more than 25 percent of Agniveers into the Force. This move not only highlights the IAF's dedication to nurturing new talent but also opens doors for young individuals eager to serve their country in the skies.

Under the Agnipath scheme, only 25% of Agniveers are initially allocated positions in the armed forces. However, in response to increasing public demand for greater recruitment of Agniveers, the authorities are actively considering expanding this percentage. 

Addressing the media, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh stated, "We have received positive feedback regarding the Agniveers and were asked if we could absorb more than the current percentage. We responded affirmatively, but the final decision rests with the government."

He expressed concerns over China’s increasing incursions and the expansion of infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), particularly in the Ladakh region. In response, he emphasised that India is also strengthening its border security and infrastructure.

Air Chief Marshal Singh
Image Source: Observer Research Foundation

Ahead of Air Force Day, the Air Chief Marshal addressed the rising geopolitical tensions in various regions, emphasising the urgent need for indigenous weapons systems to effectively counter future security challenges.

Singh called on manufacturing units to take the initiative and ramp up their production rates, while also warning of potential conflicts of interest that may arise from relying on imported weapons during times of conflict.He further said,"If we are to engage in warfare, we must ensure that our weapons are produced in India. We cannot depend on purchasing them or rely on external supply chains. It's crucial that we focus on domestic manufacturing."

Outlining the broader vision for the Indian Air Force, Singh stated, “By 2047, we aim to have our entire inventory produced domestically.” He emphasised that rather than merely stockpiling weapons, it is essential to establish a robust production system to meet our defence needs.

Addressing the question, Singh assured that three units of the S-400 missile system have already been delivered by Russia, with the expectation that the remaining two units will be received by next year.

Induction plans for long-range surface-to-air guided weapons like the Kusha are currently being explored, with a significant number of Akash missiles already integrated into the arsenal. The next focus is on the Akash NG, as noted by Singh.

He also emphasised the importance of training under war-like conditions, stating, "Training has been given more emphasis to ensure that if a conflict arises, we are well-prepared to win. Surface-to-air missiles are being kept ready at various locations."

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