IAF Chief Highlights Urgent Need for Fighter Jet Acquisition
The Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, has emphasized the critical need for India to enhance its aerial combat capabilities. He stressed that the IAF must acquire 35 to 40 fighter jets annually to address the shortfall in operational squadrons and maintain national security.
Declining Squadron Strength
The IAF currently operates with 31 fighter squadrons, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42. The shortfall is primarily due to the phasing out of aging aircraft and delays in the induction of new fighters. The IAF chief highlighted the urgent requirement to replenish and expand the fleet to maintain operational readiness and a credible deterrence posture.
Fighter Jet Induction Plans
To bridge this gap, multiple procurement and development programs are underway:
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Tejas Mk-1A: The IAF has placed an order for 83 indigenous Tejas Mk-1A aircraft, with deliveries set to commence soon. Delays in production have been attributed to supply chain issues, particularly in sourcing engine components. However, efforts are being made to expedite the process.
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Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) Program: The government is expected to issue global bids for 114 multi-role fighter jets. Major aerospace manufacturers, including those from the U.S., France, Sweden, and Russia, have expressed interest in supplying advanced aircraft under a “Make in India” model with technology transfer agreements.
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Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA): India is actively developing its own fifth-generation stealth fighter, with plans to conduct its first test flight within the next decade. The project aims to reduce reliance on foreign technology and strengthen India’s defense manufacturing sector.
Strategic Partnerships and International Offers
Apart from indigenous initiatives, India is exploring international collaborations:
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Russian Su-57 Proposal: Russia has offered to manufacture its Su-57 stealth fighters in India, providing complete technology transfer to support local production and long-term maintenance.
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U.S. F-35 Offer: The U.S. has extended an offer to sell F-35 jets to India. However, concerns over costs and strategic autonomy have led to debates over its viability.
Addressing Regional Security Challenges
The modernization and expansion of the IAF are crucial in the face of regional security concerns, particularly China’s growing air force capabilities and Pakistan’s recent acquisition of advanced fighters. The IAF chief’s statement underscores the importance of accelerating fighter jet acquisitions and strategic collaborations to maintain air superiority and national defense readiness.
