Defence Minister Antony calls induction of the C-17 Globemaster III in the Indian Air Force as a ‘defining moment’; Defence Minister: With this, the IAF has taken a giant stride towards its goal of acquiring multi- spectrum strategic capabilities, essent
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  • According to reports, the Indian Air Force formally inducted the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III at a special ceremony held at Hindan airbase of the IAF on September 2. Describing the induction of the C-17 Globemaster III in the Indian Air Force as a ‘defining moment’, Defence Minister AK Antony said, “With this, the IAF has taken a giant stride towards its goal of acquiring multi- spectrum strategic capabilities, essential to safeguard India’s growing areas of interest”. The minister appreciated the stellar role played by the IAF in rescue and relief operations during the recent Uttarakhand flash floods and said, “Today’s induction of C-17 will further boost IAF’s capability for Humanitarian Assistance and Diaster Relief”. The C-17 would form an extremely important component of the strategic airlift capability and reach of the IAF. The government accorded approval to buy 10 C-17 Globemaster III along with associated equipment for the IAF in June 2011. The first of the 10 aircraft touched down in India on 18th June 2013 and the delivery of all 10 is expected to be completed by November 2014. The newly inducted C-17 Squadron (81 Squadron) will be based in Hindan. 1

    In another development, according to reports, Defence Minister Shri A K Antony in a statement noted, “Shri Shyam Saran, Chairman, National Security Advisory Board visited Ladakh from August 2 to 9, 2013. He has submitted a report on infrastructure in Ladakh, a copy of which has been sent by the Prime Minister’s Office to the Ministry of Defence, among others, on the 2nd September 2013. The report is primarily focused on the border infrastructure but also deals with several aspects relating to the region covering a broad spectrum of activities and requirements…I would like to state categorically that Shri Shyam Saran has not stated in this report that China has occupied, or has denied access to India to any part of Indian territory. I would like to assure the House that there is no question of India ceding to China any part of Indian territory. Government keeps a constant watch on all developments having a bearing on India’s security and takes all necessary measures to safeguard it. I would further like to assure the House that Government would continue to strengthen our capabilities in border areas to protect our national interest.” 2

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