November 18, 2024: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has decided to maintain its current deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, despite a recent disengagement of troops in friction areas like Demchok and Depsang in eastern Ladakh. Sources confirmed that no immediate changes would be made to the IAF's positioning at the LAC, ensuring continued vigilance along the sensitive northern borders.

The announcement comes during the ongoing biannual IAF Commanders' Conference, which began on Sunday at Air Headquarters in Delhi. This marks the first such gathering since the partial de-escalation of military forces in the region, a significant step toward easing tensions between India and China.

The conference, which is scheduled to run until Wednesday, November 20, serves as a key platform for senior IAF officials to review operational readiness and strategic capabilities. The event focuses particularly on the security challenges at the northern borders, where both geopolitical and environmental factors contribute to heightened complexities in defense planning.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to address the conference on Tuesday, underscoring the government’s continued emphasis on national security. Discussions are expected to cover various critical issues, including winter operational strategies and integration within the armed forces to enhance overall interoperability for coordinated operations.

Sources also revealed that modernisation plans for the IAF will be a major topic, with senior commanders exploring ways to bolster the force's technological capabilities and readiness in response to evolving regional threats.

Though the military disengagement with China signals a possible thaw in tensions, the IAF's decision to retain its current posture along the LAC highlights India’s commitment to safeguarding its borders and maintaining a strong defensive presence in the region. This stance aligns with broader national security priorities, ensuring preparedness for any future challenges, including those arising from the harsh winter conditions typical of the region.

The conference will also focus on long-term strategic goals, including the modernization and upgrade of air assets, and the role of the IAF in a rapidly changing security landscape. Senior commanders will deliberate on these critical issues, with an emphasis on strengthening the IAF’s operational capabilities to counter any future threats effectively.