We are Monitoring Developments, Fully Prepared to Deal With Any Contingency, Says New IAF Chief

New Delhi: Hours after taking charge as the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria on Monday said his force is monitoring the evolving "developments" in the region and is fully prepared to deal with any "contingency".

Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria took charge as the 26th chief of the Indian Air Force. He succeeds Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, who retired after 41 years of service in the IAF.

The IAF chief also said induction of Rafale aircraft into the force will enhance combat capabilities of IAF over India's adversaries. "We are monitoring the developments and I reassure the country that we are ready to deal with any situation where our services are required by the nation. We are always vigilant and are fully prepared to deal with any contingency," Bhadauria said.

Asked about Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat's recent comments that the Balakot terrorist training camp in Pakistan has been reactivated, the Air Chief Marshal said, "We are prepared for any eventuality and will carry out any mission as directed by the government."