The primacy of Air Power will be a decisive factor in shaping the outcome of future conflicts. In line with this dictum, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has developed into a major 'Component of National Power', which can be applied quickly and decisively. The IAF has reoriented itself to a multi-role capability of platforms and equipment, along with multi-skill capability of personnel. The rapid economic growth of the country dictates the need to protect our security interests extending from the Persian Gulf to the Straits of Malacca.
Over the years the IAF has grown from a tactical force to one with transoceanic reach. The strategic reach emerges from induction of Force Multipliers like Flight Refueling Aircraft (FRA), Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and credible strategic lift capabilities. There is emphasis on acquiring best of technology through acquisitions or upgradation, be it aircraft, systems, precision missiles or net centricity. The main inductions and acquisitions by Indian Air Force are given in the following paras.
All the Jaguar twin seated aircraft are soon being upgraded to Final Operational Clearance standard in a phased manner. New single seated Jaguar aircraft are also being procured from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bangalore. The Indian Air Force is to replace Kiran trainer aircraft utilized in the Intermediate State Training. HAL has been assigned the task for Design and Development of this new Intermediate Jet Trainer aircraft.
The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) is scheduled to replace the ageing MiG-21 fleet in the IAF. The formation of first squadron of LCA is planned in 2010. IAF is procuring Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs) from HAL as a replacement to its Chetak/Cheetah fleet as a utility helicopter. The manufacture of Hawk Advance Jet Trainer (AJT) aircraft. for supply to IAF has commenced in UK. Additionally, the HAL license built Hawk AJT will be delivered from 2008 to 2010. Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft are being procured to meet the long felt needs of the IAF. The IL-76 based AWACS will significantly enhance the surveillance and monitoring of Aerial Vehicles/Aircraft.
Commissioned Ranks
The following are the commissioned ranks in the three Services; each rank is shown opposite its equivalent in the other Service:
| Army | Navy | Air Force |
|---|---|---|
| General | Admiral | Air Chief Marshal |
| Lieutenant General | Vice-Admiral | Air Marshal |
| Major General | Rear Admiral | Air Vice-Marshal |
| Brigadier | Commodore | Air Commodore |
| Colonel | Captain | Group Captain |
| Lieutenant Colonel | Commander | Wing Commander |
| Major | Lieutenant Commander | Squadron Leader |
| Captain | Lieutenant | Flight Lieutenant |
| Lieutenant | Sub-Lieutenant | Flying Officer |
Recruitment
The Armed Forces epitomises the ideals of service, sacrifice, patriotism and our country's composite culture. The recruitment to the Armed Forces is voluntary and every citizen of India, irrespective of his caste, class, religion and community is eligible for recruitment into the Armed Forces provided he meets the laid down physical, medical and educational criteria.
Recruitment of Commissioned Officers in the Armed Forces through UPSC: Commissioned Officers in the Armed Forces are recruited mainly through the UPSC which conducts the following two All India Competitive Examinations:-- National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA): The UPSC old entrance examination twice a year for entry into the NDA and NA. Candidates on completion of 10+2 examination or while in the 12th Standard are eligible to compete.
- Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE): CDSE is conducted by the UPSC twice a year. University graduates are eligible to appear in the examination. Successful candidates join the Indian Military Academy/Air Force Academy and Naval Academy for Regular and Officers Training Academy (OTA) for Short Service Commission.
