Six Ilyushin-78s for air-to-air refuelling combat aircraft are all set to join the IAF next year. The IL-78s will be a valuable addition to the IAF stable in light of the induction of the latest batch of Sukhoi-30 MKI last month in Pune.Speaking to the media after the Air Force day parade to mark the IAF’s 70th anniversary, Air Chief Marshal S. Krishnaswamy pointed out that the IL-78s would ‘‘enhance the capabilities of the air force.’’The SU-30 MKIs is one of the few aircraft with the IAF which is capable of air-to-air refuelling. Not only does it help increase the range of the aircraft is also helps in ‘‘greater maneouverability.’’‘‘The aircraft can no go anywhere and also carry heavier payloads. It will give us greater flexibility in our operations,’’ said Krishnaswamy.Meanwhile, the IAF will have to wait a little longer for its 15-year-old demand for the Advanced Jet Trainers (AJT). While the Air Force has cleared the British Hawk, the government is yet to take a decision. But the air chief confirmed that the MiG-21 FL, used at the MiG Operational Fighter Training Units (MOFTU) for training fighter pilots, will soon be phased out. ‘‘I am not in a panic but we hope that we get the AJTs soon,’’ Krishnaswamy said.If the AJTs are not coming soon, the French are. A first of its kind, French pilots will be flying with their Indian counterparts in Gwalior next year. While the modalities are still being worked out, Krishnaswamy said that the French would be flying with the Mirage pilots next year and conducting joint exercises on combat aircraft.Celebrating their 70 anniversary, the Air Force that started with just four aircraft in 1932, is looking to induct 250 aircraft in the coming five years. With an aging MiG 21 fleet, the IAF is looking to the SU-30s as their mainstay multi-role aircraft.While delivering his Air Force day address, Krishnaswamy said that the Light Combat Aircraft project was progressing well and he was satisfied with the upgraded MiG-21-Bison as well. The air force will also induct the indigenously-developed Advanced Light Helicopters, he said.
