New IAF Chief AP Singh Prioritizes Indigenous Fighter Jets

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, the new Indian Air Force Chief, emphasizes on advancing indigenous fighter aircraft projects. He highlights the focus on LCA Mark-2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. Singh underlines self-reliance, operational capabilities, and training as his key focus areas.

New Indian Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, expressed a strong commitment to advancing indigenous fighter aircraft projects. In his inaugural media briefing, Singh highlighted the order of over 200 LCA Tejas jets and emphasized the need to focus on the LCA Mark-2 and fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programs.

Singh, who has been intimately involved with the Tejas program, stated that while the LCA Tejas may be small for current operational needs, it remains essential to the fleet. "We need to move on now and focus more on LCA Mark-2 and AMCA programs," he said, underlining his vision for the future.

Recently, Singh made headlines by intercepting the German Air Force chief in a Tejas aircraft during Exercise Tarang Shakti, alongside Navy and Army Vice Chiefs, over Jodhpur. He emphasized the importance of the indigenous program, saying, "We have the capacity and capability within the country to achieve this. We are relying heavily on these two platforms." Singh's focus will be on achieving self-reliance, enhancing operational capabilities, and improving training initiatives.

(With inputs from agencies.)