India has missile defense tech like Israel, needs more resources: IAF Chief | India News

Speaking ahead of the 92nd Air Force Day on Friday, Singh acknowledged the need for a robust defence strategy, drawing parallels to Israel’s recent experience of missile attacks from Iran.

New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is ready to defend India against missile attacks but needs to significantly ramp up its air defence systems, according to Air Chief Marshal A P Singh.

Speaking ahead of the 92nd Air Force Day on Friday, Singh acknowledged the need for a robust defence strategy, drawing parallels to Israel’s recent experience of missile attacks from Iran.

“The combination of air defence weapon systems we possess, as well as those being procured, would be competent to protect India,” Singh said, emphasising the need to prioritise protecting vital areas and strategic points in the event of an attack.

He also highlighted India’s ability to conduct cross-border operations, referencing the Balakot airstrike in 2019 as a testament to India’s capabilities. “We can strike our enemies in foreign lands, which we showed during the Balakot air strikes.”

Echoing Israel’s approach, Singh stressed the importance of bolstering India’s air defence capabilities and developing indigenous weapon systems. He emphasised the vulnerabilities that come with relying on foreign suppliers, especially in a dynamic international landscape.

“You can’t rely on external supplies. It’s crucial to produce weapons domestically,” he asserted, urging Indian manufacturers to ramp up production for self-reliance in future conflicts.

“If you need to fight the war…you have to have them being manufactured in India,” Singh stressed, highlighting the strategic imperative of domestic production. He also pointed out the economic and logistical benefits of reducing reliance on imported weapons, advocating for a “self-reliant” approach to national security.

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