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Fire power demonstration on February 28

NEW DELHI: For the first time-ever, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will display its prowess and capability of precision strikes across different time settings — day and night — at the fire power demonstration (FPD) in Pokhran ranges, Rajasthan on February 28.

Codenamed, ‘Vayu Shakti-2010,’ the demonstration is to be witnessed by President Pratibha Patil. It will be a collective display of skills and accuracy in weapons delivery by pilots at the end of their training year. It also aids commanders and planners to gain better insight into the potential of aerial weapons.

The IAF will press 100 aircraft —70 taking part and 30 standby in air— and an equal number on the ground, making it the biggest participation by the force in any such FPD. The last FPD was held in 2004.

Asked about the timing of the FPD that comes three days after the India-Pakistan Foreign Secretaries-level talks, Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal P.V. Naik said: “Do not link [or attribute] any motives. Our demonstration is intended to tell the people of our country, the capability of the IAF, its skills and strategic reach to protect the skies and national interest.”

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