The eight decades old Indian Air Force (IAF), considered the fourth largest air arm in the world, is all set to spread its wings to take care of Indian strategic interests beyond the shores of the country. The inauguration of this premier fighter aircraft base in Thanjavur in South India on May.27 by the Indian Defence Minister A.K. Antony will provide an additional strategic dimension to India's air power as the fighters will be able to fly up to the island communities of Andaman and Lakshadweep more frequently in demonstrating India's air dominance on the oceanic region. The first and only fighter base in South India under the control of southern air command, the Thanjavur facility meant to station the most lethal Russian origin Su-30MKI fighters will help IAF expand its reach over many parts of Indian ocean region (IOR) considered the lifeline of India.
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