‘Ready to Retaliate’: Key Takeaways From Armed Forces’ Address

Air Vice Marshal RGK Kapoor (left), Army Major General SS Mahal (centre) and Rear Admiral Dalbir Singh Gujral (right) during a joint press briefing.

(Photo: PTI)

The Indian Army, Navy and the Air Force jointly addressed the media on Thursday, 28 February, and said that all the forces are on high alert and ready to retaliate on any unprovoked misadventure by Pakistan.

Jointly addressing the media with Army Major General SS Mahal and Rear Admiral Dalbir Singh Gujral, Air Vice Marshal RGK Kapoor said that the IAF was happy about Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman’s return after being captured by Pakistan.

The forces also presented evidence that Pakistan used F-16s to attack Indian military establishments on 27 February, the part of a missile called AMRAAM is solely used by F-16. Pakistan had earlier denied that F-16s were used in the incursion.

Here are the key takeaways from the address:

What the Air Force Said

• IAF fighters were tasked to intercept the intruding Pakistani aircraft and managed to thwart them. Although PAF jets dropped bombs, they were not able to cause any damage.
• One Pakistani F-16 was shot down by an IAF MiG-21 Bison Aircraft.
• Parts of F-16 have been recovered east of Rajouri.
• IAF is happy that Wing Commander Abhinandan is returning tomorrow.
• Pakistan’s gesture to release Wing Commander Abhinandan is in consonance with the Geneva Conventions.
• F-16s were used in Pakistan’s incursion through their electronic signatures, something that Pakistan had denied.
• Parts of AMRAAM, air-to-air missile which is carried only on the Pakistani F-16s were recovered east of Rajouri within the Indian territory.
• India has evidence to show that it destroyed the intended targets in Pakistan on 26 February but the decision to show the evidence is on the senior leadership.

What the Army Said

• The Indian Army has put mechanised forces on standby across all borders.
• Troops are ready to deal with any security challenge.
• Major General SS Mahal said that as long as Pakistan continues to harbour terrorists, the army will continue to target terror camps.
• The tensions between the two countries have been escalated by Pakistan, said Mahal.
• India prepared for any contingency and provocation by Pakistan.

What the Navy Said

• The Navy is deployed in a high state of readiness and remains poised on surface, under sea and in air to deter, prevent and defeat any misadventure by Pakistan in maritime domain.
• The Navy assured of a resolute, swift and strong response when needed.
• The Navy stands with the Army and Air Force to ensure the safety and security of the nation and our citizens.