Reduction in voluntary retirements of IAF fighter pilots: Centre

New Delhi, Dec 16 (ANI): Defence Minister A K Antony on Wednesday said in the Rajya Sabha that the Indian Air Force (IAF) has seen reduction in the numbers of pilots applying for early retirement.

In a written reply Antony revealed that only one IAF pilot applied for resignation in current year till December.

A total of nine pilots applied before the commission of resignation in 2007 while in 2008 four pilots sought early retirement from the service.

Antony also expressed confidence that: "The present strength of pilots in Air Force is sufficient to meet its current operational requirements."

"The improvement in the job profile of the pilots is a continuous process keeping in view the job specific requirements and operational necessity. Besides, the Short Service Commission (SSC) for flying branch has been modified to also make men eligible for induction in this branch," Antony stated in his reply.

Antony, further stated that the implementation of the recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission shall also go a long way in attracting youth.

Replying to another question Antony assured members that the weapon systems such as Harpy missile purchased from Israel, anti sea-eagle missile, anti-radiation missiles and some types of cluster bombs are in a high state of serviceability and all efforts are made to maintain these systems.

"After the expiry of assigned life by original equipment manufacturer and non feasibility of getting further extensions due to obsolescence of technology, these weapons are systematically with the approval of designated IAF agencies," Antony said through his written reply. (ANI)