In my opinion, one premise behind IAF's decision to deploy its entire contigent of Mig-29's has something to do with its policy of having some transperancy. Since when airforce deploy its aircraft on forward station and do the publicity, it will indirectly increase IAF's task of maintaining high standard of vigilance. Because in case of pre-emptive strike by our enemies, it becomes highly responsible task for IAF to deter the same, under such circumstances, IAF will be fully accountable for any loss of such pre-emptive strike.
Second premise may have something to do with its slow pace of long range radar deployment and parallel modernization of its agening fleet of both static and mobile radar cover. We do have deploy some good radar system like Green Pine, Aerostate and quick reaction SAM's like spider alongwith Akash SAM, but point here is to note that many of this ultra modern assets are deployed to deny use of airspace around high value target. Many of our border airspace is still undefended because bulk of our ageing Radar cover and SAM's and many of this agening system is highly vulnerable to EW systems of our enemy airforce and hence despite having good number there are still various loopholes is waiting to be exposed by enemy especially through low level air strike.
Another premise of Mig-29 deployment may have something to do with rapid emergence of some high value installations like Oil Rigs in the desert of Rajasthan, rapid urbanization of our border areas, incoming Corporate parks and industrial installations in the form of Special economic zones. But unfortuntely, we are once again handicapped by our near obsolate Radar cover and SAM site which is two to three decades old and hence many of this Premium installation are at high risk.
