Military Power Is Ultimate Guarantee of National Security, Says Air Force Chief AP Singh

He said, "While any power is important, ultimately a strong military is required. If you don't have military power, anyone can subjugate you. Venezuela and Iraq are the most recent examples of this. Military power is important, but even more important is the will to use that military power."

The Air Force Chief also quoted a couplet by national poet Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar', emphasizing the importance of a strong military and the will to use it. He said, "Forgiveness suits a cobra that possesses poison, and what about one that is toothless, venomless, humble, and simple. Unless you have that willpower, you can exercise restraint. But that restraint will be perceived as weakness. Only when you are strong enough and exercise restraint is it seen as capability."

AP Singh also said that India's security needs are often influenced by developments in its neighborhood, which sometimes necessitates reactive decisions. He emphasized the need for swift decisions on Make in India initiatives and strategic partnerships for next-generation weapon systems to strengthen self-reliance.