IAF strengthens its hold in Tamilnadu

S Vishnu Sharmaa, INN/Chennai, @Svs037 

Thanjavur in Tamilnadu turned cynosure of all eyes as Indian Air Force (IAF) went ahead with commissioning its squadron of Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircrafts at its base there on January 20.

While the commissioning went ahead amidst a thunderous applause, the presence of the Sukhoi squadron would boost our ability to have a watcful eye over Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and regulate unwanted activities there.

IOR is a sea route through which India conducts good deal of its economic activity, hence, importance of peace and stability there is of no less value to our country. Any measure that helps us strengthen peace and stability in IOR is more than welcome. Setting up the squadron is a step in that direction.

The ‘Tiger Sharks’ Squadron that comprises Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter planes integrated with BrahMos cruise missiles were inducted by Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat in the presence of Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria.

The fine point in the whole exercise is the capability of Sukhoi MKIs. They are said to be all weather multi-role fighter aircrafts that can take up ground attacks, air defence work and also take part in maritime missions.

Moreover, the integration of BrahMos with Sukhoi-30 MKI was undertaken completely in India by BrahMos Aerospace, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and IAF. IAF chief RKS Bhaduaria said the decision to put Sukhois at Thanjavur was taken as it happens to be a strategic location.

There is more to it than what meets the eye. The establishment of Sukhoi squadron which are integrated with BrahMos missiles have another significance. As per what some experts feel, this measure may give us an upper hand when it comes to manning over Indian Ocean Area.

The IOR is a vital sea route for not only India, but also many other countries. Amidst a situation when China is looking towards firming its hold on IOR, equipping ourselves with a potent squadron serves as a shot in the arm for us.

While Indian Navy used to largely operate in IOR till now, and with IAF (equipped with BrahMos integrated Sukhoi 30-MKIs) joining the stream our capacity to retain hold on IOR has reached further heights. No harm should come to this nation and all efforts must be made to achieve that.