The Indian Air Force ,IAF, Chief N A K Browne said that the security environment in India's neighbourhood is extremely fragile which is a major concern. He said, it warrants close monitoring and air vigilance. He also noted that inimical intentions of the country's adversaries are being strengthened by radicalism. The Air Chief Marshal was addressing the 79th Air Force Day parade in Hindon near Delhi. Stressing on ensuring the security of all important assets of the country, the IAF chief said that security of defence forces' information networks was also absolutely critical, which was being upgraded to meet the challenge.

He said that the IAF, is in the last lap of finalising its multi-billion dollar combat aircraft deal for which commercial bids of two shortlisted vendors would be opened by 18th of this month. Speaking on other important IAF modernisation programmes, the IAF Chief said, the C-130J Hercules and the Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AWACS) have been inducted and operationalised in good time. He said, the planned induction of the C-17 Heavy lift aircraft along with medium and heavy lift choppers will increase IAF's operational flexibility.

On the upgrade programmes involving the fighter and transport aircraft, Chief Air Marshal said, upgrades of Jaguar, Mirage 2000 and MiG 29 fighter aircraft along with An-32 transport aircraft are underway and will help in enhancing their operational relevance.

AIR correspondent reports that an impressive air show was organised to mark the occasion.