IAF Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa addresses press conference in Coimbatore
Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa Monday said the Indian Air Force hit the desired targets on the terror camps in Balakot across the Line of Control (LoC). "If we plan to hit the target, we hit the target," Air Chief BS Dhanoa told reporters in Coimbatore. "If we had dropped bombs in the jungle, then no need for him [Pakistan] to respond."
Air chief's statement comes in the backdrop of the intense political blame-game between the ruling NDA and the Opposition. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa also clarified that the questions over the capabilities of Mig-21 Bison aircraft were wrong.
According to Dhanoa, the Mig-21 has been upgraded, keeping in mind the new requirements. He also said that Mig-21 now has better radar, air-to air missiles and better weapons system.
Different sections of the media and some political parties had also questioned the number of terrorists killed in India's airstrike on terror camps across the LoC.
Also Read | Over 250 terrorists killed in IAF airstrike in Balakot, claims Amit Shah; Opposition raises questions
"The casualty figure in air strike on Balakot camp will be given by government," Dhanoa said, adding, "the death toll depends on the number of people present in target, IAF doesn't count number of dead."
When will Wing Commander Abhinandan hit the skies again?
"We don't take chances with medical fitness of pilot; if Abhinandan is fit he will fly fighter jet," IAF Chief Dhanoa said.
All required treatment will be given to Wing Commander Abhinandan, Dhanoa said. IAF chief Dhanoa also said that he cannot comment on the politics, but is happy over Abhinandan's return to India.
Responding to questions about delay in Rafale's introduction in the Indian Air Force, the IAF chief said the Rafale fighter jets should come into IAF's inventory by September.
"The Rafale jet should come into India's inventory by September," the Air Force chief told reporters in his first comments since the February 26 attack on a Jaish-e-Mohammed camp in Balakot in Pakistan.
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