Air Force chief urges for integration of civil radar network

Bangalore, July 2 (UNI) Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshall F H Major today said that there was an urgent need to integrate the radar network of the IAF and the civil aviation in view of rapid growth in civil aviation sector.

Addressing commanders of IAF Training Command at Yelahanka on the outskirts of the city, he said that the Union overnment was very supportive of the IAF's modernisation plans contrary to what was generally perceived.

"Delays in its implementation is due to a number of global vendors eyeing the Indian defence purchases. Equipment offered by these vendors has to be thoroughly evaluated and the best supplier identified to suit the country's needs," he said.

He said that Air Force Station at Bidar in Karnataka would be watched by the whole country when the Hawks were inducted in October this year and that it was indeed going to be a proud moment for IAF.

He also said that plans were afoot to induct an additional 44 Hawk AJTs above the contracted number.

The Air Chief Marshall also awarded Air Force Station the Best Flying Training Establishment Trophy.

UNI