Government Panel Outlines Roadmap to Enhance IAF Capabilities

A high-powered government committee has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap aimed at accelerating the capability enhancement of the Indian Air Force (IAF). This strategic plan addresses operational gaps and emphasizes increased participation from the private sector to complement the efforts of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and defense public sector undertakings (PSUs).

Key Focus Areas for IAF Enhancement

The committee’s report identifies several critical areas for improvement:

• Increasing Fighter Squadrons: The IAF currently operates 30 fighter squadrons, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42.5. The plan outlines a “glide path” to progressively augment this number, ensuring the IAF maintains robust combat readiness.

• Induction of Force Enablers: The roadmap emphasizes the need for additional force multipliers, including airborne early-warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, mid-air refuelers, and a diverse array of air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles. These assets are crucial for extending operational reach and enhancing mission effectiveness.

• Accelerating Indigenous Production: To reduce dependency on foreign equipment, the plan advocates for expediting the production rates of indigenous aircraft and systems. This includes fostering greater collaboration between defense PSUs, the DRDO, and private sector entities to bolster domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.

Presentation of the Enhancement Plan

On Monday evening, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, who chaired the committee, presented the report to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting was attended by key defense officials, including IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and Vice Chief Air Marshal S.P. Dharkar.

Context of the Capability Enhancement Initiative

This initiative comes at a critical juncture, as regional adversaries continue to advance their aerial capabilities. Notably, China is developing sixth-generation fighter prototypes and is expected to supply Pakistan with at least 40 J-35A fifth-generation stealth jets. In contrast, India has faced challenges in producing its indigenous fourth-generation Tejas jets in sufficient numbers, prompting IAF leadership to express concerns over current force levels.

Strategic Recommendations for IAF Modernization

The committee has proposed a phased implementation of its recommendations, categorized into short, medium, and long-term objectives. The goal is to expedite the IAF’s capability-building process by enhancing research and development efforts, increasing production rates, and streamlining procurement procedures.

Fast-Tracking the AMCA Program

In parallel, another committee led by the Defence Secretary has been established to accelerate the development of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter project. Although the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the AMCA’s development in March of the previous year, with an initial budget exceeding ₹15,000 crore, the aircraft is not expected to enter production before 2035.

The newly outlined roadmap signifies a concerted effort by the government to address the IAF’s operational deficiencies and modernize its aerial warfare capabilities. By integrating advanced technologies and fostering indigenous production, the plan aims to position the IAF as a formidable force capable of addressing contemporary security challenges.