IAF Plans Fighter Jet Induction; F-15EX Joins Global Tender
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is accelerating its plans to acquire 114 multirole fighter aircraft (MRFA) to strengthen its aerial combat capabilities. The induction is expected to take place within the next four to five years, aiming to fill the gap left by the phasing out of older fighter squadrons and ensuring operational readiness in the face of evolving security challenges.
IAF’s Fighter Jet Expansion Plan
Currently, the IAF operates 31 fighter squadrons, well below its sanctioned strength of 42. Over the next decade, nearly 10 squadrons comprising Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29 aircraft are set to retire. With the long-term goal of achieving a 60-squadron strength by 2047, the MRFA procurement is a crucial step toward meeting future combat requirements and countering potential threats.
Global Contenders in the MRFA Tender
Several advanced fighter jets are competing for the MRFA contract, including the Dassault Rafale, Saab Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, MiG-35, and the F-16. A notable new entrant in the tender is Boeing’s F-15EX Strike Eagle, marking its first participation in an Indian defense procurement process. The F-15EX is a heavily upgraded version of the F-15 platform, boasting enhanced avionics, increased payload capacity, and superior strike capabilities, making it a strong contender for the IAF’s requirements.
Streamlining the Selection Process
To fast-track procurement, the IAF intends to conduct limited trials, primarily assessing modifications and upgrades made to these aircraft since their last evaluation. This approach is designed to expedite the selection process and ensure timely induction of the chosen fighter jets into service.
Domestic Manufacturing and Future Readiness
The selected MRFA will be produced in India under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This procurement, alongside the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programs—including the Tejas Mark 1A and the upcoming Mark-2—is expected to significantly enhance the IAF’s combat fleet in the coming years.
With this strategic acquisition, the IAF aims to modernize its air fleet and maintain superiority in the region, ensuring that India remains prepared for any future security challenges. The final decision on the selected aircraft is anticipated in the coming years as the evaluation process unfolds.
