L&T Explores Fighter Jet Manufacturing to Address IAF’s Aircraft Shortage
India’s defense sector is witnessing significant developments as private enterprises explore opportunities to bolster the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) combat capabilities. Larsen & Toubro (L&T), a prominent Indian multinational engaged in engineering and construction, has expressed interest in entering the fighter jet manufacturing arena. This move aims to address the IAF’s critical shortage of over 200 fighter aircraft, a gap that has raised concerns amid escalating regional security challenges.
As of March 2025, the IAF operates 31 combat squadrons, falling short of the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons. This deficit has prompted the Ministry of Defence to establish a five-member Empowered Committee for Capability Enhancement of the IAF. The committee’s mandate includes identifying strategies to achieve the desired augmentation of the IAF’s operational capabilities.
One of the committee’s key recommendations is to involve the private sector in military aircraft manufacturing, thereby reducing the reliance on the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This initiative aligns with the government’s ‘Make in India’ policy, which seeks to promote indigenous defense production and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers.
L&T’s potential entry into fighter jet manufacturing could significantly enhance the domestic aerospace industry’s capacity. The company’s expertise in engineering and infrastructure positions it well to contribute to the development and production of advanced combat aircraft. Such participation from private entities is expected to expedite the production timelines and introduce competitive efficiencies in the defense manufacturing sector.
The IAF’s current fleet comprises various aircraft, including the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Dassault Rafale, and the domestically developed HAL Tejas. However, delays in the delivery of these aircraft, particularly the Tejas, have exacerbated the shortfall. Supply chain constraints, notably the delayed arrival of engines from General Electric, have hindered HAL’s ability to meet delivery schedules.
Incorporating private sector capabilities, as exemplified by L&T’s interest, could alleviate some of these challenges by diversifying the manufacturing base and introducing additional resources into the production process. This strategy not only aims to meet the immediate requirements of the IAF but also strengthens the overall defense industrial base of the country.
Furthermore, the global defense landscape presents additional opportunities for collaboration. For instance, Russia has proposed manufacturing its advanced Sukhoi Su-57 fighters domestically in India, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Such collaborations could provide technological transfers and boost indigenous production capabilities.
In conclusion, L&T’s potential venture into fighter jet manufacturing represents a pivotal shift in India’s defense production strategy. By leveraging private sector expertise, India aims to enhance its self-reliance in defense manufacturing, address critical shortages in the IAF’s combat fleet, and strengthen its position in the regional security landscape.
