Analyzing the Air Power Balance: Indian Air Force vs. Chinese PLAAF

Amid escalating tensions, the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces a formidable challenge from the technologically advanced People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) over the Himalayas. With over 1200 warplanes, the IAF stands in a tight spot against the PLAAF's locally developed and manufactured arsenal.

The PLAAF's substantial size and technological superiority pose a significant threat, yet the IAF holds advantages in operational bases and geographical positioning, critical for supporting Indian Army operations and counteracting PLAAF strategies.

As tensions simmer along the Ladakh border, questions arise about the IAF's ability to sustain operations in challenging mountain terrain and a potentially expanding conflict scenario. An objective analysis of PLAAF capabilities is crucial to assess the threat posed to IAF operations.

Delving into PLAAF platforms, training, and likely tactics provides insights into the potential challenges faced by the IAF. From frontline fighters like the Su-35 and J-20 to strategic assets like the H-6 bombers and advanced cruise missiles, the PLAAF presents a multifaceted threat.

Examining PLAAF training, tactics, and operational exercises reveals a concerted effort to enhance combat readiness and adaptability against near-peer adversaries. However, challenges remain in achieving uniformity across units and maintaining tactical proficiency.

In assessing the PLAAF's potential tactics, the utilization of stealth capabilities, force multipliers like AWACS, and precision strike capabilities underscores the complexity of the threat environment faced by the IAF.

Despite PLAAF's advantages, constraints exist, such as terrain limitations, logistical challenges, and vulnerabilities in extended operations from high-altitude airbases. The IAF's familiarity with low-level flying and operational bases offers strategic advantages in countering PLAAF aggression.

As both air forces engage in a potential conflict scenario, the balance of power hinges on factors like training, motivation, and adaptability. While the IAF may face initial challenges, leveraging strategic acquisitions and operational expertise can bolster its resilience against PLAAF incursions.

In navigating the air power balance, the IAF must prioritize strategic investments in cruise missiles, EW equipment, and air defense systems to mitigate PLAAF advantages and uphold national security interests in the region. 

IAF Reveals Causes Behind Accidental BrahMos Missile Launch into Pakistan

 The Indian Air Force (IAF) has publicly disclosed the reasons behind the accidental firing of a BrahMos combat missile into Pakistan in March 2022. According to a response submitted to the Delhi High Court, the IAF attributed the incident to the combat connectors of the BrahMos missile remaining connected to the junction box, leading to the unintended firing.

Sharing key findings from the Court of Inquiry conducted to investigate the incident, the IAF explained that the convoy commander overseeing the movement of a road convoy failed to ensure the safe transit by not disconnecting the combat connectors of all loaded missiles on the mobile autonomous launcher before the movement commenced.

Describing the incident as having a significant impact on India-Pakistan relations, the IAF informed the court that a decision was made to invoke the "President's pleasure" clause to terminate the services of three officials involved. This decision, unprecedented in the IAF for 23 years, was deemed necessary considering the sensitive nature of the case and its potential repercussions on national security.

The IAF clarified that conducting a court martial trial for the three officers was deemed impractical, as it would divulge sensitive information to the public domain, potentially compromising security interests. Similarly, initiating action under Section 19 of the Air Force Act, 1950, was considered unsuitable, as it could expose sensitive issues detrimental to the state's security.

The Court of Inquiry concluded that the combat crew, despite being aware of the connected combat connectors, failed to intervene to prevent the unsafe act of launching the combat missile, resulting in its inadvertent firing into a neighboring nation. This incident not only posed a potential threat to airborne and ground assets but also damaged the reputation of the Indian Air Force and the nation, incurring a financial loss to the government exchequer.