As India formally inducted the 4.5-generation Rafale fighter jets into the Indian Air Force (IAF) last week to give a boost to its air power after over two decades, defence minister Rajnath Singh, in a clear reference to the current standoff with China in eastern Ladakh, said the induction of the fighter jets is a strong message for those who challenge India’s sovereignty.
“The induction of Rafale jets is a big and stern message to the entire world, especially to those eyeing our sovereignty. This kind of induction is very important for the kind of atmosphere that has been created on our borders,” the defence minister said without naming China.
France’s armed forces minister Florence Parly, who accompanied Singh at the induction ceremony at the country’s oldest, largest and strategically important airbase at Ambala, said with the induction of Rafale, in military terms, India will acquire a world-class capability that will give New Delhi an incredible sovereignty. In strategic terms, this will give India an edge over the entire region to defend itself, she said. Parly also stated that the French government supports India’s claim for permanent membership of the UN Security Council.
Rafale to be part of ‘Golden Arrows’ squadron
The Rafale aircraft would be part of the 17th Squadron, which is popularly known as the “Golden Arrows”, at the Ambala airbase. Prior to this, the IAF had inducted Sukhoi-30 in its fleet 23 years ago.
Describing the Rafale deal as a game-changer for India’s national security, Singh, in his 14-minute address, reiterated the resolve of not compromising India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity under any circumstances and the country’s determination to make all possible preparations for it. “The intentions of the military are as strong as it can be,” he said.
Asserting that strengthening of the defence forces is aimed at achieving international peace and stability, the defence minister added, “We do not want to take any step that can endanger international peace. We have the same expectation of our neighbours and other countries of the world.” Singh also congratulated the IAF personnel for the swift and decisive action taken by them near the LAC recently and added that the rapid deployment of IAF assets at forward bases created a trust that IAF was fully prepared to meet its operational obligations.
Describing the Rafale induction as a reflection of close strategic relations between India and France, Singh said both the countries have cooperated closely in a number of areas to enhance defence cooperation.
