With a focus on the quicker induction of fighter jets, mid-air refuelers, and airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) systems, the empowered committee for capability enhancement of the Indian Air Force (IAF), led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, has made a comprehensive set of recommendations to address the IAF’s urgent capabilities shortfall, according to Rahul Singh of Hindustan Times.
Following the IAF chief’s public admission of chronic squadron shortages and the pressing need to induct about 40 fighter jets annually to sustain combat readiness, the panel’s report—which is classified as “secret”—was presented in March.
In light of China’s and Pakistan’s modernization efforts, the committee drew attention to the IAF’s present force level of roughly 30 fighter squadrons against an authorized strength of 42.5, the lowest number since 1965.
It was discovered that accelerating short- and long-term manufacturing and procurement initiatives was crucial to the air force’s operational readiness. Among the top priorities are:
Accelerating the induction of new fighter jets, such as the imminent government contract worth ₹67,000 crore to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for 97 additional Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1As.
In light of China’s and Pakistan’s modernization efforts, the committee drew attention to the IAF’s present force level of roughly 30 fighter squadrons against an authorized strength of 42.5, the lowest number since 1965.
It was discovered that accelerating short- and long-term manufacturing and procurement initiatives was crucial to the air force’s operational readiness. Among the top priorities are:
speeding up the introduction of new fighter jets, as seen by the upcoming ₹67,000 crore government deal for 97 more Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1As to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The IAF is getting ready to expedite the purchase of 114 new fighters in partnership with Indian and international OEMs, furthering the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program.
Increasing the number of mid-air refuellers: Due to maintenance issues with the current Russian Ilyushin-78 tankers, techno-commercial bids for six refuellers will soon be opened. Israeli, Russian, and European companies are vying for this deal. After earlier attempts to speed up procurement failed, the defense ministry is now working to reduce acquisition cycles from the current 7–8 years to less than two years.
increasing AEW&C capabilities with the anticipated approval of six more Airbus 321-based systems by the Cabinet Committee on Security.
The suggestions also call for a significant change in the aerospace industry toward Atmanirbharta, or self-reliance, through increased private sector involvement to support the work of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs). Building a strong defense industrial base, addressing supply chain gaps, and boosting domestic capability are the objectives of this policy.
The defense ministry revealed plans to expedite the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), an indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft, by using a competitive approach that involves both public and private participants, subsequent to the submission of the panel’s findings. This action is in line with the committee’s focus on local capacity building, innovation, and technology absorption.
Following the IAF’s pivotal involvement in Operation Sindoor, which provided a backdrop for these reforms and highlighted the pressing need for modernization, the implementation of these proposals is taking place at a time of increased operational tempo.
As a sign of the government’s determination to stop the decline of capabilities and prepare the IAF to face new and modern threats, the defense minister has instructed top officials to strictly implement all panel recommendations within a set timeframe.
