Indian Air Force's Eastern Command adapts to geographical diversity and operational challenges

In a significant development aimed at addressing the shortage of airfield facilities and enhancing operational readiness in the eastern part of India, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively developing its capability to use a wide range of airfields, including civilian ones. Air Marshal SP Dharkar, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, shared this strategic vision during a recent press conference held in Guwahati.  

During the press conference, Air Marshal Dharkar disclosed the IAF's concerted efforts to bolster its capabilities for operating from different airfields, whether civilian, military, or advanced landing grounds. He emphasized that they are building the capacity to employ any airfield in the eastern region whenever the need arises, providing the IAF with unprecedented operational flexibility.  

Incorporating advanced technologies for enhanced defense  

Air Marshal Dharkar highlighted the Eastern Air Command's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in defence. He mentioned the Integrated Air Command and Control System, a sophisticated technology deployed across India, including the eastern region. This system plays a pivotal role in monitoring and safeguarding Indian airspace and borders.  

The IAF's Eastern Command is dedicated to ensuring its readiness and proficiency to defend the nation's eastern borders and airspace effectively. Air Marshal Dharkar stated, "We have that capability, and we retain that plan. There is continuous improvement taking place in that regard. The availability or the limitation of having fewer airfields is just a matter of time."  

This strategic approach aligns with the IAF's broader goal, ensuring that it can operate from a diverse array of airfields, similar to the airfields available in neighbouring countries. This initiative not only enhances defence preparedness but also provides strategic advantages, considering the varied operational needs and possible emerging security challenges.  

Flexibility in aircraft basing  

Air Marshal Dharkar further discussed the IAF's unique ability to relocate aircraft swiftly between airbases within the same region, which grants unparalleled flexibility. He clarified that aircraft basing primarily serves peacetime purposes, enabling training and practice activities. This strategic manoeuvre ensures that aircraft can be rapidly repositioned within a particular zone, as necessitated by changing security requirements.  

Addressing the possibility of establishing a second base for Rafale fighter jets in the region, Air Marshal Dharkar elucidated that such basing primarily serves training and practice needs during peacetime. The ability to quickly relocate aircraft between airbases within a specific region remains a distinctive feature of the IAF's operational capabilities.  

He affirmed that the Air Headquarters could decide to position a second Rafale squadron in the eastern region, strengthening security and operational readiness as required. The IAF currently has two Rafale squadrons, with the first stationed at the Ambala Air Force Base in Haryana and the second at the Hasimara Air Base in West Bengal.  

Unique challenges of Eastern Air Command   

Air Marshal Dharkar acknowledged the distinctive challenges faced by the Eastern Air Command. This air command shares its borders with five neighbouring countries, including Nepal, China, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. The region's expansive and geographically diverse border stretches, spanning from sea level to altitudes as high as 20,000 feet, present distinct operational challenges that require specialized defence strategies.  

Notably, the Indian Air Force's strategic efforts to enhance airfield capabilities in the eastern region underscore its unwavering commitment to national defence. By expanding its ability to operate from a wide range of airfields, the IAF is poised to effectively address emerging security challenges and fortify India's defence preparedness.