Air Force Chief AP Singh Cites Venezuela, Stresses Strong Military and Will as Pillars of National Security
At the 22nd Subroto Mukherjee Seminar, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh warns global instability shows need for power and will in defence strategy
New Delhi, Jan 21: Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, on Tuesday underscored that a robust military and strong national will are indispensable to national security, citing recent global examples to illustrate his point. He made the remarks at the 22nd Subroto Mukherjee Seminar, a key defence forum in the capital.
Speaking to defence professionals, Singh pointed to Venezuela and Iraq as cautionary cases where insufficient military strength left nations vulnerable to external pressures, saying, “If you don’t have military power, you can be subjugated by anybody.”
The Air Force chief stressed that military might alone is not enough without the will to use it effectively. He explained that restraint, when backed by strength, is perceived as capability rather than weakness.
Singh also highlighted the critical role of air power in India’s defence strategy, noting its decisive impact from evacuations to counterterror operations and rapid strikes when necessary. He reiterated that maintaining air superiority is key if India seeks to be a formidable force in the region.
Reflecting on the legacy of Air Marshal Subroto Mukherjee, the first Indian Chief of Air Staff, Singh said the IAF has grown significantly since its early years of limited resources, adding that the service today is better equipped but must remain vigilant for future threats.
Singh urged stakeholders to focus on both power and preparedness, warning that India must build on its achievements and brace for evolving security challenges ahead.
