Kolkata: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has an edge over its Pakistani counterpart despite Islamabad's acquisition of F-16 fighter aircraft from the US, according to the Commander-in-Chief of the Strategic Forces Command, Air Marshal Ajit Bhavnani.

''In the present capability of conventional warfare, we are far ahead of our western neighbours,'' Bhavnani told reporters when asked whether Pakistan's acquisition of F-16s would give them an edge over the IAF.

He was talking to mediapersons after the launching ceremony of the Fast Attack Craft 'INS Bitra' at the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) premises.

Stating that 'concerted efforts' were being made to acquire the most modern and the best combat aircraft, he said the Sukhoi-30 MKIs, now in possession of the IAF, were among the best in the world. Besides, the IAF also had Mirages and Jaguars.

''All these put together, we can't be matched. So, let them get what they want. We are confident that we can take on any one,'' Air Marshal Bhavnani said.