IAF chief issues stark warning amid geopolitical upheaval, cites Venezuela & Iraq example

Amid escalating geopolitical and trade tensions across the globe, Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Amarpreet Singh has delivered a strong and unambiguous message on the importance of military strength and the will to use it. Speaking at the 22nd Subroto Mukherjee Seminar in New Delhi, the IAF chief stressed that military power remains the ultimate arbiter of national power. Citing recent developments in Venezuela, Iraq and Iran, he warned that military weakness invites subjugation, adding that restraint is respected only when backed by unquestionable strength. He underlined that air power, in particular, has repeatedly proven decisive — from evacuating Indian citizens from conflict zones to striking terror infrastructure and delivering rapid military responses. Calling for focus on future readiness, Air Chief Marshal Singh urged India not to rely on past successes but to prepare resolutely for emerging security challenges.