Chinese anti-satellite missile doesn't perturb IAF

New Delhi -- China's successful firing of an anti-satellite missile does not perturb the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has suggested the creation of an Aerospace Command to better manage assets in outer space.

"They have conducted a test, but it is not an indication of their capabilities. Let us first study the capability they have acquired," Air Marshal Homi Major, who has been named the new IAF chief, told reporters here Sunday on the sidelines of an international seminar on "Aerospace Power in Tomorrow's World".

Major assumes office March 31 when Air Chief Marshal S.P. Tyagi retires.

Asked about the problems he anticipated and his priorities in resolving these, Major said: "I have no apprehensions about problems. There are only challenges to be faced."

One of these would be the creation of an Aerospace Command that Tyagi had mooted two years ago.

"I will most certainly pursue this," Major stated.

He also dubbed as not "a matter of concern" the IAF's depleting force levels, which are down to 30 squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 39 1/2.

"The strength has depleted but there is no cause for concern," Major maintained.

On his part, Tyagi said he was "delighted" that Major, the first helicopter pilot to head the IAF, was succeeding him.

"I am absolutely delighted. The government couldn't have found a better man to lead the IAF," the air chief added.

There has been considerable heartburn in the IAF over Major's elevation, even though he would be the senior most of four Air Marshals on the date of Tyagi's retirement. Tyagi had obliquely indicated he was not too happy with a helicopter pilot succeeding him.

The government had Jan 30 announced Major's elevation, strictly following the principle of seniority.