India may perform joint air exercise with China: F H Major

Gwalior, Apr 1 (UNI) Air Chief Marshal F H Major today said India was planning to start a joint air exercise with China and some other countries.

The Air Chief Marshal gave the statement during a programme on the platinum jubilee occasion on completion of 75 years of establishment of Squadron-1 of Air Force at Maharajpura airbase here.

''India has already performed joint air exercises with the US, France and Singapore. Joint air exercises increases the ability of Air Force. Besides, it provides an opportunity to understand the prowess of Air Force of other countries,'' he said.

Breathtaking aerobatics performed by aircraft of 'Squadron-1' left spectators spellbound. First Air Marshall and Padmashree Arjun Singh was the chief guest on the occasion. Other senior Air Force officers were present.

Air Chief Marshal Major said Indian Air Force was growing stronger day by day. He claimed that its ability would witness an unprecedented growth in the next 10 years and would be capable to give fight to any country.

Pointing out that Mirage-2000 series aircraft were now two-decade old, he said its upgradation was under consideration following which its capability would increase.

Talking to reporters about shortage of staff in the Air Force, he said there was shortage in all the three wings of the Army. Every possible step was being taken to recruit officers.

Regarding the recommendations of the Sixth Pay Commission, he said talks were going on with the government. More allowances were expected for army officials.

He said the Air Force was formed in 1933 and 'Squadron-1' came into existence in 1943. Since then, it played important role on several occasions.

UNI XC-PS SYU KP2136