Operational preparedness to face threat from Pakistan and China will be reviewed during the four-day Army Commanders’ Conference here on next Monday. The IAF will also take stock of its modernisation plans in the backdrop of depleting fighter aircraft squadron strength during its commanders’ meet beginning the same day.
With China rapidly modernising its armed forces besides having vastly superior infrastructure along the line of Actual Control(lAC), the Army top brass will review its readiness to meet threat on eastern borders.
The commanders are also likely to take up the issue of the Mountain Strike Corps which is now in the process of raising after the UPA Government gave the green signal two years back. However, the NDA Government may slash the strength of the Corps due to shortage of funds as nearly Rs90,000 crores are needed for this unit comprising more than 50,000 personnel.
The Corps is to be raised in a span of five to seven years with fresh recruitments of officers and soldiers besides procuring weapon systems like artillery guns, howitzers, helicopters and air support to fight a way in the mountains.
Situation on the line of Control(lOC) with Pakistan and security scenario in Jammu & Kashmir will also come up discussion, officials said here on Friday. With summer months round the corner, they expect infiltration by militants from across the lOC to increase as snow is melting thereby making all the ingress routes accessible.
IAF commanders will take an overview of modernization drive in the background of fast ageing fleet of some its fighter aircraft squadrons(one squadron has 18-20 planes). At present, the IAF has 35 squadrons against the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons but delay in procurement of latest jets is hampering its operational preparedness.
With PM Narendra Modi announcing the decision to buy 36 Rafales in fly away condition from France, the IAF brass will discuss the induction plans as the deal with the French Government is likely to be inked within this year and the aircraft may start arriving here after two years. The Army and IAF will also discuss the career progression policies of its personnel, officials said.