In the following passage some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each blank.

The Defence Minister complimented the IAF for its rapid deployment of assets at forward locations (1)______ response to the border row with China in eastern Ladakh. The current combat readiness has sent a strong message to our (2)______, he said. In an address to the top commanders of (3)______ IAF on the opening day of a three-day conference, the defence minister said the nation’s resolve to defend its sovereignty (4)______ firm and that the people of the country have full confidence in the (5)______ of its armed force