LTTE's air power worrying India: Antony

Defence Minister A K Antony today admitted that the recent air offensives launched by Sri Lankan insurgent group Libetration Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) is worrying India.

Antony told commanders of the Indian Air Force today that "LTTE’s air power is a cause of worry for us.’’ This is the first official acceptance of the LTTE’s rising fighting capabilities by New Delhi. The defence minister spoke about the LTTE threat in the context of security in the neighbourhood.

The minister was speaking after inaugurating a three day air commanders’ meet.

Antony said "several important projects are in various stages of implementation". His words of reassurance come as IAF is still awaiting the release of international tenders for purchase of 126 Multi-Role Combat Aircraft. The fighters are desperately required as the IAF would be left with only 29 fighter squadrons by the end of this year against a sanctioned force level of 45 squadrons.

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