IAF convoys can draw fuel on the go from the extensive network of retail fuel dispensers across the country, without having to go through military stations to refuel
Ajai Shukla
Defence News of India, 29 Mar 22
Taking a significant step towards efficient management of fuel logistics for Indian Air Force (IAF) convoys on the move, the Air Force has introduced a “Fleet Card – Fuel on Move” for its diverse fleet of vehicles.
Currently, IAF convoys on the move – say from Jaisalmer to Pathankot – obtain fuel for their vehicles from various IAF-related agencies and stores that fall along the way, or from establishments and IAF airbases they pass through. This limits road mobility, forcing IAF convoys to necessarily stop at the pre-supplied agencies they pass through.
With the advent of Fleet Cards, IAF convoys will now be able to source fuel from the extensive network of retail fuel distributors across the country. The measure will significantly improve the rapid mobility of IAF forces across the country who can now take the shortest route between two locations without being constrained by the requirement to pass through military stations for resupply.
According to the IAF, HQ Western Air Command has been designated as the lead agency in the implementation and execution of “Fuel on Move”. The availability of the fleet card will allow the convoy to refuel at any IOCL service station, increasing movement tempo and reducing preparation time at operational sites across the country.
Fleet Card was launched on Monday by the Chief of the IAF, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhry and SM Vaidya, the Chairman of the IOCL, at Headquarters (HQ) Western Air Command, at Subroto Park.
The IAF considers itself to be the most flexible and responsive branch of the Indian Army. It is characterized by rapid mobility according to tactical requirements.
In addition to directly affecting the IAF’s ability to rapidly redeploy its forces, this measure will have several indirect effects on improving combat capability and effective logistics management within the IAF.
Air fighters and other assets currently involved in fuel management within the IAF can now be reassigned to other operational tasks. “This is in line with the recommendations of the Shekatkar Committee to improve the teeth-to-tail ratio within the armed forces,” the IAF said in a press release on Monday.
Additionally, fuel retailers in remote areas that have an IAF presence and through which Air Force convoys are likely to pass will benefit greatly, helping local economies.
The IAF says: “Fuel accounting will become much more efficient, with paperwork being eliminated to a large extent. This is in line with the desire of governments to establish minimum government and maximum governance.
The IAF also states that reducing paperwork related to accounting and payment of dues will also help the IAF reduce its carbon footprint.
The launch of the Fleet Card is the culmination of efforts by various agencies within the IAF and IOCL to quickly switch forces between different airbases, improving the efficiency and responsiveness of the IAF.
