The Indian Air Force (IAF) will incorporate 114 new fighter jets into its fleet over the next 5 to 10 years to bolster its capabilities. A high-level committee within the Ministry of Defence has approved this ambitious plan.
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to significantly enhance its strength in the coming years. The Ministry of Defence has approved the procurement of 114 new fighter aircraft, elevating India's air defence capabilities to new heights. This initiative aims to replace aging fighter jets scheduled for retirement within the next decade. This decision will maintain the Air Force's squadron strength and further solidify India's aerial dominance.
Modern Fighter Jets to Replace Obsolete Aircraft
Several older IAF fighter aircraft, including Jaguars, Mirage-2000s, and MiG-29s, are slated for decommissioning within the next 10-12 years. In response, the Ministry of Defence has greenlit the tender process for the procurement of new aircraft. These new fighter jets will be integrated into the IAF fleet in a phased manner over the next 5-10 years.
Sources suggest that aircraft like the Rafale, F-16, Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, and MiG-31 could be contenders in this tender process. These aircraft have all previously participated in IAF tender processes. The Ministry of Defence will prioritize aircraft equipped with cutting-edge technology and advanced combat capabilities.
Plan to Increase Squadron Strength by 2047
To further strengthen India's defence strategy, the IAF aims to increase its squadron strength to 60 by 2047. Currently, the IAF operates 36 Rafale fighter jets, advanced 4.5-generation aircraft. However, anticipating future needs, plans are underway to incorporate fifth-generation fighter jets into the fleet.
Furthermore, new variants of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas – Mark 1A and Mark 2 – will also be integrated into the IAF. This will enhance the Air Force's self-reliance and further bolster the nation's defence capabilities.
New Procurement to Make India's Air Power Unmatched
Defence experts believe this deal will be a significant step towards making the IAF one of the world's most advanced and powerful air forces in the coming years. For India, this is not merely a fighter jet procurement plan, but a crucial decision to bolster its strategic and tactical advantage.
The Ministry of Defence is also considering assembling and manufacturing these aircraft domestically under the 'Make in India' initiative. This will boost domestic defence production and significantly improve India's self-reliance and defence capabilities.
