Air Force is in full flight for Games security

The Indian Air Force, along with the ministry of home affairs and Delhi Police, have developed a comprehensive air defence plan for the Commonwealth Games. A circular area encompassing a 60- kilometre radius out of Vijay Chowk on Raj Path has been provided “ saturation air defence coverage,” beginning Monday.

Air force spokesperson, Wing Commander Tarun Kumar Singha, told mediapersons on Tuesday that “ a holistic view of security against any aerial threat has been taken.” That includes hijacking attempts, low and high- speed aircraft intrusion and threats from para gliders, balloons, unmanned aerial vehicles, microlite aircraft and aeromodels.

Two heavy- duty unmanned aerial vehicles of the air force will keep a watch on the skies for the period of the Games. The air defence network of the air force has been integrated with the Delhi Police’s communication network for seamless functioning of the network.

A contingent of Garud special forces has also been activated to supplement the National Security Guards for any threat during the Games.

Air force fighter aircraft like Sukhoi 30s, MiG 21s and MiG 21 Bisons have been kept on the ready as operational readiness platforms with pilots fully kitted up awaiting a message for action in the central and the western air command air bases. Helicopters like MI-17 and attack helicopters will be flying combat air patrols over the Games sites and the Games village.

The air space above Delhi will remain closed during the opening and closing ceremonies, while on other days no unscheduled aircraft will be allowed access to the air space.