India's neighbourhood is like a volcano: IAF chief

Indian Air Force chief P V Naik on Friday described the current security scenario in India's neighbourhood as a "volcano" that may erupt anytime and asked the air warriors to be prepared to meet both internal and external challenges.

"The current security scenario is like a volcano and may test your skills anytime without warning. These times require swift action," Naik said while addressing the Air Force Day parade in Hindon, Ghaziabad.

The air chief marshal said operational preparedness was the key to meet the complex and intensive threat with "speed of response, flexibility and precision".

Noting that the air force would turn itself into a potent aerospace power within the next five to seven years, he said future inductions such as the 126 MMRCA, flight refuelling aircraft, AWACS and other platforms would pose technological challenges that need to be met by imbibing new skills.

Pointing out that the new communication network, ASNET, had changed the way the air force conducts its operations, Naik said the air force was moving quickly to become a network centric aerospace power.

"We have the responsibility to absorb the new technology and operate all systems effectively to secure, protect and to preserve the air force's ground and air assets with diligence and utmost prudence," Naik said.

Later, interacting with the media, Naik said he had described the security situation as "volcanic" because it was not known when it would erupt.

On modernisation and new acquisitions, the air force chief said the MMRCA and fifth generation fighter aircraft that would join the fleet in the next decade, would help the IAF meet the national aspirations.

Asked about the FGFA, Naik said he expected it to be inducted into the air force by 2017 and equated it with the F-22 Raptor of the US Air Force which is already operational.

"I wish I could join the air force again to fly these modern aircraft," added Naik, who will reach superannuation next year.