"OUR CURRENT R&D BUDGET IS WOEFULLY SHORT"

Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, Chief of the Air Staff believes that while concentrated efforts to increase the same are on-going, the private industry would also need to actively invest in this sector

- A.P. Singh

SP’s Aviation (SP’s): How does the CAS perceive the significance of Aero India, primarily a platform catering to the IAF, in showcasing the role of IAF as a global air power to the international air force community?

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS): I see Aero India 2025, as the embodiment of the whole of nation mission required to develop sustainable war-waging capability and operational stamina in aerospace domain. The mega-event is a global showcase of our preparedness to meet geo-strategic challenges.

The event provides an ideal platform for the IAF to engage with international counterparts, exchange ideas and strengthen relationships that contribute to regional and global stability. Various meets and conclaves held on the sidelines of Aero India, like the Defence Ministers’ conclave and the Air Chiefs’ Roundtable, provide an opportunity for forging new partnerships and discovering fresh avenues of collaboration.