China can’t get the better of India in any conflict, we’re fully capable: IAF chief

The IAF chief assured that forces were firmly deployed and were ready to handle any contingency along the Line of Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.

Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief, said on Monday India was fully capable of handling any threat from China over the border standoff along the Line of Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and that there was no question of the neighbouring country besting us in any conflict scenario.

ANI Photo

Bhadauria acknowledged the strength of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) saying their air force includes surface-to-air systems in the Ladakh theatre, air-launched long-distance weapons and Chengdu J-20, which is a fifth-generation fighter with advanced sensors and weapons but does not have advanced engine tech.

He, however, said China has its own areas of strength but “we have catered for all scenarios and are fully capable of handling any threat.”

Watch: ‘No question of China getting the better of us’: IAF Chief on LAC standoff

When asked about the progress on disengagement talks with China in the Ladakh sector, Bhadauria said, “The talks towards disengagement, followed by de-escalation, are on. We hope that the talks will progress along the lines that are expected.”

The IAF chief assured that forces were firmly deployed and were ready to handle any contingency along the border. “We have deployed to all relevant operational locations, required to access this area,” Bhadauria said.

India and China will hold the seventh round of corps commander-level talks on October 12 to discuss the way forward on the situation in Ladakh.