Formulating of an Integrated Air Defence System As a Response to Contemporary Threat

Abstract

Air Defence (AD) is one of the prime security concerns in modern security concepts. With the rapid development in the field of military aviation, necessity of AD is becoming an important security arrangement worldwide. Different countries have developed some sophisticated weapon systems with associated command and control elements in order to encounter the threats from air. Sri Lanka, having an airspace which expands up to its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and beyond, is in a dilemma to safeguard it due to lack of resources and absence of proper vision. In order to encounter perceived threats which are mostly in asymmetrical nature, Sri Lanka is in need of an Integrated Air Defence System under unified command with decentralized assets. This paper intends to evaluate and analyse the current threats to Sri Lankan airspace in order to formulate necessary countermeasures. This is a study based on an empirical survey and data are gathered through primary and secondary sources. The authors also intend to introduce a structure for AD Command for optimal utilization of resources and authority to achieve synergetic effect.