Central Enhancing Global South Air Forces with Indigenous Aerospace Platforms

Indigenous aerospace platforms such as the Light Combat Aircraft, Light Combat Helicopter, Akash Missile systems, and radars provide competitive and reliable options for air forces in the Global South, enhancing India’s economic and technological influence, according to Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari on Friday.

He emphasized the export potential of these platforms, suggesting that establishing joint ventures with other countries could be mutually beneficial. This could involve collaborating on component development, sharing production facilities, and creating regional maintenance and support centers.

He stressed the importance of focusing on capability development in global supply chains, manufacturing hubs, and establishing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities. Additionally, joint research and development projects, defense innovation, and technological exchanges are crucial.

Highlighting the significance of air power and the role of the IAF in fostering strategic partnerships and contributing to the advancement of the Global South, he noted that increased engagement through training activities has led to the sharing of best practices in operations and maintenance.

He also mentioned the impact of Indian Military Advisory Teams and courses offered through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation program. These initiatives have facilitated increased cooperation by providing training to over 200,000 officials in both civil and defense sectors. In the past nine years, the IAF has trained more than 5,000 foreign trainees from Global South countries.

The IAF chief emphasized the importance of identifying contemporary security challenges faced by India and the Global South, including terrorism, cyber threats, regional conflicts, and other shared concerns that should be addressed on a common platform.

He noted that the landscape of international relations is evolving, with traditional power structures being challenged by new players. He highlighted the looming threat of global conflict fueled by ideological divisions, resource scarcity, and climate change, leading to interconnected challenges such as economic disparity and resource exploitation.

The IAF chief also mentioned that black swan events and other global conflicts have further exacerbated the situation.

The event also featured the launch of two books: “Indian Air Power: Contemporary and Future Dynamics” by Air Marshal (Dr) Diptendu Choudhury (retd) and “Aeroengine Fundamentals and Landscape in India: A Way Forward” by Air Vice Marshal Suresh Singh.