CDS General Rawat proposal to create Air Defence Command

New Delhi: CDS General Bipin Rawat has ordered to chart out a plan for the creation of the ‘Air Defence Command’ to strengthen the country’s air security. General Rawat has set a deadline of 30th June for the proposal and becomes one of the first orders Rawat issued after taking over as the CDS. Also, General Rawat issues directions for the development of common logistic support pools for all the three defence forces.

After the Kargil war in 1999, the need arose for jointness and synergy between the three defence forces. Furthermore, the position of the CDS was seen as necessary for the purpose. Given the developments, the post of the CDS was created for efficient use of the capabilities and energy of the defence forces. General Rawat became the first CDS and announced that his highest priority would be for establishing jointness and synergy between the three defence forces.

General Rawat held a meeting of prominent officials from the defence forces after taking over the responsibility. The CDS had reportedly ordered the preparation of a proposal for air defence command till 30th June. The decision was taken for more effectively using the Indian Air Force to strengthen the country’s air security. India had purchased Rafael fighter jets from France, and they were inducted in the Indian Air Force. At the same time, India has completed the procedures for the purchase of S-400 air defence system from Russia to further strengthen the air defences of the country.

In the current scenario, the Air Defence Command is set up for the collaborative use of the capabilities of the Air Force and Army to strengthen the air defences of the country, analysts informed. The Air Defence Command will also have the systems to forewarn on enemy missiles and approaching fighter jets. Therefore, the Army, along with the Air Force, can take quick steps to retaliate against the enemy attack.

The common logistic support pools will be developed to utilise the capabilities of the three defence forces correctly. It will majorly reduce the additional time and funds required for moving the defence equipment, weapons and soldiers.