Ready to give befitting reply to sub-conventional threats:Raha

Hindon Air Base, Oct 8: Amid frequent ceasefire violations by Pakistan and terror attacks in Kashmir, IAF chief Arup Raha today asserted that the armed forces are prepared to give a befitting reply to sub-conventional threats and any other challenge facing the country.

The Air Chief Marshal said that the armed forces "are there to deliver and they are doing the job" as he refused to comment on the political slugfest over the cross-LoC surgical strikes on terror camps.

His remarks came on a day when the Indian Air Force celebrated its 84th Foundation Day with a spectacular air display at Air Force Station Hindon in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad district, 30 kms from here.

For the first time, India's indigenous Light Combat Aircraft performed stunts at the air show, amid loud cheers from the audience.

In his customary address at the celebrations, Raha said, "World is in a flux today. Terrorists attacks in Uri and Pathankot show the troubled times we live today."

In his message on official Facebook page of the IAF Indian Air Force, Power to Punish launched today, the Air Force chief said the force is operating some of the most modern weapons and equipments and the air warriors exercise ceaseless vigil of skies.

"We continue to train to take up any threat and are fully prepared to undertake any challenge in most befitting manner," Raha said.

Asked later about increasing threat from Pakistan, he said the armed forces are well prepared to take on any sub- conventional threats.

Sub-conventional threats refers to proxy war that Pakistan indulges in against India through the use of terrorists.

Raha said that terrorists can always get better but the armed forces can neutralise them.

"With each incident, the forces are getting smarter and learning new lessons." he said.

Replying to a query on the political war of words over the surgical strike, Raha said "the armed forces are there to deliver and they are doing the job".

PTI