Category: indigenisation

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595: AERO INDIA 2025 AND KEY SOLUTIONS FOR IAF’S CHALLENGES

 

 

My Article published in the SP Aviation’s

Aero India  special e-magazine on 10 Feb 25.

 

Aero India. Aero India is a premier aerospace and defence exhibition held biennially in India, serving as a vital platform to showcase the nation’s advancements in aviation technology, defence capabilities, and aerospace innovation. Organised by the Ministry of Defence, it attracts global defence manufacturers, policymakers, and military leaders, fostering collaboration and strategic partnerships. The event aligns with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative, emphasising indigenous manufacturing and technology development. Aero India is crucial in enabling collaborations with global players and enhancing India’s defence exports and procurement programs. The event highlights key emerging trends, including artificial intelligence, space-based defence systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).  Overall, Aero India is a crucial event that strengthens India’s defence ecosystem.

 

IAF Challenges. The Indian Air Force (IAF) faces significant challenges due to shortages in fighter aircraft, force multipliers, and key operational assets, impacting its ability to meet long-term strategic goals. One of the most pressing concerns is the shortfall in fighter squadrons. While the induction of advanced platforms such as the Rafale has boosted capability, the slow pace of procurement and delays in indigenous programs like the Tejas Mark 2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) have created capability gaps. The IAF also faces shortages in critical force multipliers such as Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) systems, aerial refuelling tankers, and drones essential for extending the operational reach and maintaining air superiority in prolonged conflicts. Additionally, the service faces numerous other challenges. Progress remains slow despite efforts to address these issues through the Make in India initiative and increased defence budgets. Bridging these gaps requires accelerated procurement and streamlined production of indigenous platforms.

 

Adversarial Threats. The Indian Air Force (IAF) faces growing challenges due to the rapid modernisation and expansion of both the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), which are enhancing their capabilities through advanced platforms and strategic cooperation. With significant support from China, the PAF has made notable progress in fleet modernisation by inducting advanced fighter jets such as the JF-17 Thunder Block III, equipped with AESA radars and beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles. The PAF’s procurement of Chinese J-10C fighters, featuring advanced avionics and electronic warfare capabilities, has further narrowed the technological gap with the IAF. Pakistan’s focus on enhancing its air defence network, integrating long-range surface-to-air missile systems (SAMs), and investing in unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) pose asymmetric threats to India’s air dominance. Meanwhile, the PLAAF presents an even greater challenge with its rapid expansion and technological advancements. China’s deployment of fifth-generation stealth fighters such as the J-20 and an extensive fleet of modern aircraft like the J-16 and H-6K bombers enhances its capability for long-range strikes and air superiority missions. It has even flown the sixth generation prototypes. The PLAAF’s focus on network-centric warfare, integrating artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, and space-based assets, gives it a strategic edge. Furthermore, China’s expanding airbases in Tibet and Xinjiang, with enhanced infrastructure and support systems, allow for sustained air operations along the Indian border. The combined threat from the PAF and PLAAF places immense pressure on the IAF to modernise its fleet rapidly, enhance its force multipliers, and enhance its operational readiness.

 

Aero India 2025.  Aero India 2025 presents a crucial opportunity for the Indian Air Force (IAF) to address its operational challenges by exploring advanced aerospace and defence technology solutions. It would provide a critical opportunity to find sustainable solutions through international collaboration and Indigenous innovation. The IAF must leverage the event to accelerate procurement, foster strategic partnerships, and enhance Indigenous capabilities. Furthermore, global defence suppliers (foreign and Domestic) would gain an understanding of India’s military modernisation plans.

 

Major Challenges Faced by the Indian Air Force

 

Squadron Strength Shortfall. One of the most significant challenges for the IAF is the depletion of fighter squadrons. The sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons is essential to counter a potential two-front war scenario. However, the IAF currently operates around 31-33 squadrons, mainly due to the phased retirement of ageing MiG-21s and delays in acquiring replacements. The induction of platforms such as the Rafale has helped, but further acquisitions and indigenous production are crucial to bridge the gap.

 

Force Multiplier Shortages. The Indian Air Force (IAF) faces challenges in enhancing its force multiplier capabilities, which are critical for maintaining a strategic edge in modern warfare. Force multipliers such as airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) systems, mid-air refuelling tankers, electronic warfare (EW) platforms, drones, and advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets play a pivotal role in extending the IAF’s operational reach and effectiveness. However, the current fleet of these assets is limited, constraining the IAF’s ability to sustain prolonged operations, especially in high-intensity conflict scenarios.

 

Dependence on Imported Technology. Despite significant strides in indigenous production, the IAF remains dependent on foreign suppliers for critical platforms, components, and weapon systems. This dependence affects operational readiness and strategic autonomy, making accelerating domestic research and development imperative.

 

Adapting to Changes in Warfare. The Indian Air Force (IAF) faces significant challenges in adapting to the rapidly evolving nature of modern warfare, characterised by advancements in technology, cyber threats, and the increasing importance of multi-domain operations. The growing emphasis on unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and network-centric warfare demands a paradigm shift in operational tactics and procurement strategies. Cyber security threats also pose a significant risk, as adversaries invest heavily in electronic and information warfare capabilities. The IAF must enhance its capabilities in space-based surveillance, drone warfare, and electronic warfare to stay ahead in a rapidly changing battlefield environment.

 

Infrastructure Challenges. The Indian Air Force (IAF) also faces infrastructure challenges that directly impact its operational readiness, modernisation efforts, and ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats. One of the concerns is the airbases, particularly those located in remote and strategically sensitive regions in the northeastern states. Many of these bases require substantial upgrades to support the deployment and maintenance of modern fighter jets. The lack of sufficient hardened aircraft shelters (HAS) and blast pens leaves critical assets vulnerable to enemy strikes, especially in high-tension areas like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. Another challenge is the storage and handling of advanced weaponry and ammunition. Modern air warfare demands the deployment of precision-guided munitions, long-range missiles, and advanced electronic warfare suites, all requiring specialised storage and maintenance infrastructure.

 

Maintenance and Logistics Challenges. The Indian Air Force (IAF) faces maintenance and logistics challenges impacting operational readiness and efficiency. With a diverse fleet comprising legacy aircraft alongside modern platforms, maintaining a seamless supply chain for spare parts and repairs is a complex task. Dependence on foreign suppliers for critical components often leads to delays due to geopolitical and logistical hurdles. IAF’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) infrastructure and supply chain management require upgrades to meet the demands of modern warfare.

 

Expected Solutions

 

To mitigate its challenges, the Indian Air Force (IAF) must prioritise modernisation, self-reliance, and operational efficiency. Investing in indigenous production under the “Make in India” initiative can reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and ensure a steady supply of spare parts.  Strengthening force multipliers such as AWACS, aerial refuelling, drones, and ISR assets is crucial for strategic superiority. Improved logistics management and cyber security enhancements will further bolster the IAF’s combat readiness in future conflicts. Upgrading maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities and adopting advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and predictive maintenance will enhance fleet availability. Aero India 2025 will be a convergence point for industry leaders, defence manufacturers, and policymakers to explore solutions to these pressing challenges. Some of the thrust areas include:-

 

Capability vis-à-vis Capacity. Warfighting capabilities and the capacity to sustain operations are both essential. It is a combination of quality and quantity. While the capabilities of Indian air power (e.g., reach, high altitude operations, precision, standoff, all-weather operations, airlift capability, etc.) have developed well, the numerical strength of air assets like fighter aircraft, combat enablers, AWACS, AAR, Drones, etc., needs to be increased.

 

Aircraft Type and Capability. The type of aircraft being used, their capabilities, payload capacity, and mission versatility significantly affect how effectively and efficiently air operations can be sustained. Therefore, a balance between quality and quantity needs to be maintained. In the Indian context, besides inducting the LCA to make up the numbers, an adequate number of advanced fighter aircraft must also be inducted. Aero India 2025 will showcase options for modern fighter jets to augment the IAF’s capabilities.

 

Boosting Indigenous Production. In the long run, Self-reliance is the only way. The Indian Air Force has always encouraged the development of indigenous defence production capability, and it is one of its key result areas. The event will emphasise indigenous defence production under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. It will also focus on partnerships with global defence companies for technology transfer, joint ventures, and local manufacturing of critical systems such as engines, avionics, and radars.

 

Advanced Force Multipliers. In addition to increasing their numbers, integrating force multipliers seamlessly with combat aircraft and ground-based systems requires advanced networking and data-sharing capabilities. To overcome these challenges, the IAF must accelerate indigenous development, enhance interoperability with allied forces, and invest in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and space-based ISR to bolster its force multiplier capabilities and maintain air superiority in future conflicts. Aero India 2025 will provide a platform to evaluate and procure force multipliers such as AEW&C systems, aerial tankers, drones, and enhanced electronic warfare systems.

 

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Drone Warfare. The use of unmanned platforms and systems is growing in warfare. This shift is expected to continue as technology advances and the capabilities of unmanned systems improve further. Drones of various sizes and capabilities are taking over the tasks of conventional platforms. Their use is spread across the entire spectrum of threats, ranging from sub-conventional and conventional to long-range attacks. Investment in anti-drone systems is also a need of the hour. Aero India 2025 will showcase the latest advancements in Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), drone swarms, and counter-drone technologies—Indigenous platforms such as the DRDO’s Rustom and Tapas UAVs.

 

Situational Awareness & Decision Making. One effect of advanced technology on air warfare is the increased pace and intensity of air operations. In such a scenario, the decision-making process must quickly keep up with the OODA cycle. The three most important contributing factors are high situational awareness, a robust and fast network system for information sharing, and AI-based decision-support systems. The solutions may be found in the Aero India.

 

Space-Based Capabilities.  The term airpower has changed to aerospace power, with the aerial warfare envelope expanding to the space domain. Space-based systems and applications are embedded in every aspect of aerial warfare. In Grey zone warfare, the involvement of space-based equipment and systems is even larger. Space-based systems are becoming increasingly crucial in air warfare, providing capabilities such as navigation, targeting, communication, early warning of missile launches and space-based surveillance.  The integration of these systems with air assets is expected to continue, providing new opportunities for offensive and defensive operations. Aero India 2025 will highlight these solutions and satellite-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), with the possibility of collaboration with ISRO and global space technology firms.

 

Cyber and Electronic Warfare Capabilities. Aero India 2025 will emphasise the need to strengthen the IAF’s capabilities in electronic warfare and cyber defence. Solutions like AI-driven cyber threat detection, electronic jamming systems, and next-generation radar technologies will likely be showcased.

 

Investment in Technology.  The Air Force is a technology-intensive service; converting technology into capability is time-consuming. To stay on top of the challenges, there is a need to invest in emerging technologies and ideate about their use in warfare. Technologies impacting the air war include quantum computing, hypersonics, AI, unmanned platforms (including drones and swarm technology), and a network-centric environment. Defence companies would display new defence systems incorporating these technologies.

 

Loyal Wing Man Concept. Both man- and unmanned platforms have their respective advantages and disadvantages. The thought process for the next generation of platforms is to harness both benefits and develop networked systems in which both can work in an integrated manner. Research is being done in many countries on the “loyal wingman” concept. HAL is likely to disclose the progress of its CATS Program.

 

Hypersonic. The development of hypersonic platforms and weapons will likely significantly impact air strategy. Hypersonic weapons provide new opportunities for rapid response and long-range strike capabilities with precision. They also pose new challenges in terms of protection and air defence.  The high speed and unpredictability of hypersonic weapons will require the development of new air defence strategies, as traditional air defence systems may be unable to detect or intercept these weapons. This could lead to the development of new technologies, such as directed energy weapons or advanced sensors, to counter the threat posed by hypersonic weapons. Also, protective infrastructure would be required to withstand these weapons’ destructive power. These aspects would find their way into Aero India.

 

Smart Training Aids. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is leveraging modern training aids such as simulators, artificial intelligence (AI), and virtual reality (VR) to enhance combat readiness and operational efficiency. Advanced flight simulators provide realistic, mission-specific training while reducing costs and wear on actual aircraft. AI-driven analytics help personalise training programs, analyse pilot performance, and optimise mission planning. VR technology immerses trainees in highly realistic combat environments, improving situational awareness and decision-making under pressure. These cutting-edge training solutions would find a place in the air show.

 

Smart Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Efficient and reliable logistics networks and supply chains are crucial for providing fuel, ammunition, weapons, spare parts, other critical supplies, and resources to sustain air operations. Well-maintained supply chains are essential for operational readiness and sustaining a protracted conflict. Industry leaders will present solutions to streamline the IAF’s logistical operations, including tools powered by artificial intelligence, automated inventory management, and improved supply chain networks to ensure the availability of critical spare parts.

 

Conclusion. Aero India 2025 represents a significant opportunity for the IAF to address its critical challenges and prepare for future readiness. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, fostering international collaborations, and enhancing indigenous capabilities, the IAF can address the existing gaps. The outcomes of Aero India 2025 will have far-reaching strategic implications for India’s air power capabilities. The event will catalyse India’s vision of becoming a self-reliant aerospace and defence powerhouse, ensuring a robust, future-ready air force.

 

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

References:-

  1. “Modernizing the Indian Air Force: Issues and Challenges” – Journal of Strategic Studies
  1. “The Role of Aerospace Technology in Enhancing National Security” – Defence and Technology Journal
  1. “India’s Aerospace Industry: Present Challenges and Future Directions” – Economic and Political Weekly

Government Reports & White Papers

  1. “Aero India 2025: Indian Aerospace and Defence Industry Report” – Ministry of Defence, India
  1. “Aero India 2025: What to Expect?” – The Economic Times
  1. “India’s Aerospace Industry in 2025: A Strategic Overview” – India Today
  1. “How Aero India is Shaping Future Air Combat” – The Hindu
  1. “The Role of Technology in the Modernisation of the Indian Air Force” – Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA)
  1. “Challenges and Solutions in Air Force Modernisation” – Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS)

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

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579: INDIA’S JOURNEY IN FIGHTER AIRCRAFT DESIGN & MANUFACTURE: CHALLENGES AND SUCCESSES

 

Pic Courtesy Net

 

My Article published on the Chanakya Forum Website on 10 Jan 25

 

India’s fighter aircraft production journey reflects a blend of significant achievements and persistent challenges. The licensed production of platforms like the Mig-21, Sukhoi Su-30MKI and SEPECAT Jaguar has strengthened the Indian Air Force (IAF) while providing invaluable experience in manufacturing and technology integration. Significant success includes the past development of the Indigenous HF-24 Marut and the recent Tejas aircraft with state-of-the-art avionics, composite materials, and a delta-wing design. Tejas has become a symbol of India’s aerospace ambitions. Additionally, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, aimed at producing a fifth-generation stealth fighter, underscores India’s aspirations to join global defence leaders. However, India’s fighter production has faced notable failures. Early efforts, such as the HF-24 Marut, were limited by underpowered engines and technological constraints. Delays in indigenous projects like Tejas Mk2 and AMCA and dependency on imported engines and critical systems have hampered timelines. Additionally, quality control and production scalability remain areas of concern. Despite these challenges, initiatives like “Make in India”, a government initiative to encourage manufacturing in India, and increased private sector participation foster a robust defence manufacturing ecosystem. By addressing these issues, India has the potential to emerge as a global player in fighter aircraft production and exports.

 

Journey So Far

 

India’s journey in fighter aircraft production, spanning several decades, began in the post-independence era. The timeline of this journey is marked by key milestones, from the initial reliance on imports to the transition towards licensed production and indigenous development. Below is a chronological overview of India’s significant achievements and persistent challenges in fighter aircraft production:-

 

In the 1950s, India’s first steps in aircraft production were through licensed manufacturing agreements with foreign companies. The De Havilland Vampire, a British jet fighter, was the first jet aircraft inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF). Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) assembled the Vampire under license, marking India’s entry into jet aircraft production. In addition, HAL produced the Hawker Hunter under the UK’s license. The Hunter served as a versatile fighter-bomber during the 1965 and 1971 wars. HAL also produced Folland Gnat under license. Gnat was known as the “Sabre Slayer” for its success against the Pakistani Air Force in 1965. India later developed an improved version called Ajeet in the 1970s.

 

During the 1970s–1980s, India began exploring indigenous fighter aircraft development while continuing licensed production. The HF-24 Marut was India’s first indigenously developed jet fighter. Although it had limited operational success due to underpowered engines, it was a milestone in India’s aerospace development. During the same period, India entered into a series of agreements with the Soviet Union to produce MiG-21 fighters under license. HAL manufactured over 600 MiG-21 aircraft, which became the backbone of the IAF for decades. These projects helped HAL acquire critical knowledge in jet manufacturing.

 

In the 1990s, India procured the Anglo-French SEPECAT Jaguar for deep strike roles and began producing it under license at HAL. This period saw India modernise its air force with more advanced fighters. The Mirage 2000, a French multirole fighter, was inducted to address India’s capability gaps. While HAL did not produce this aircraft, it supported its maintenance and upgrades. India signed a deal with Russia for the licensed production of the Su-30MKI, a highly advanced multirole fighter. HAL has produced over 270 Su-30MKIs, which remain a critical component of the IAF.

 

In the last two decades, India’s focus has shifted towards indigenous fighter aircraft production, particularly with the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program. Designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and produced by HAL, the Tejas program marks a significant milestone in India’s return to indigenous fighter development. Despite delays, the Tejas program eventually achieved operational clearance, with the Mk1 variant in service and Mk1A and Mk2 under development. Work is underway to develop Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation fighter under development by DRDO and HAL, aiming to equip the IAF with stealth capabilities.

 

Leapfrog Strategy

 

India’s leapfrog strategy for fighter aircraft development and production is a strategic imperative, aiming to bypass incremental progress and achieve advanced capabilities in a shorter timeframe. It focuses on cutting-edge technologies rather than following a linear development path. The need for strategic autonomy and rapid modernisation of the Indian Air Force drives this approach. India’s leapfrog strategy has shown promise but faces mixed results. The strategy tries to leverage foreign collaboration for critical technologies, private sector involvement, and government initiatives like “Make in India.” On the one hand, developing advanced platforms like the HAL Tejas demonstrates progress. Despite initial delays, the Tejas program has evolved into a modern, capable aircraft. However, challenges persist, raising questions about its effectiveness. Persistent project delays, reliance on imported engines and key technologies, and research and development capabilities gaps have hindered progress. Furthermore, scaling up production to meet the Indian Air Force’s demands remains challenging. The approach’s success depends on addressing these systemic issues, accelerating timelines, and building a stronger domestic defence ecosystem. It’s a work in progress with tangible but incomplete results.

 

Development and Production Ecosystem

 

India’s fighter aircraft development and production ecosystem is a collaborative effort, combining users, public and private sector research and development and manufacturing agencies, and government-led initiatives to achieve self-reliance and reduce import dependency. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) are at the forefront of this ecosystem, driving R&D and production. However, the private sector, with companies like Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro, and Adani Defence, is increasingly pivotal in manufacturing components, subsystems, and assemblies. Government initiatives such as “Make in India” and establishing defence industrial corridors in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh have further bolstered the ecosystem by encouraging innovation, attracting foreign investment, and creating a favourable environment for defence manufacturing. These corridors are designed to streamline production and reduce costs, making India a competitive global player. Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Nonetheless, the ecosystem is evolving steadily with sustained policy support, greater private sector involvement, and a focus on innovation.

 

Challenges

 

Fighter aircraft production in India faces technical, financial, operational, and policy challenges. Addressing these challenges is crucial to achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

 

Designing and producing 5th-generation fighters involves cutting-edge technology in stealth, advanced materials, and electronics, where India is still catching up. Critical technologies are primarily imported. India’s indigenous engine development program, such as the Kaveri engine, has faced setbacks, forcing reliance on foreign engines like the General Electric F404 and F414 for the Tejas. A significant portion of critical components, including avionics, engines, and weapons systems, are imported, which increases costs and reduces self-reliance. Dependence on foreign suppliers creates vulnerabilities in geopolitical tensions, as witnessed by delays in acquiring components during global conflicts or supply chain disruptions.

 

The aerospace industry ecosystem in India, including tier-2 and tier-3 suppliers, is underdeveloped compared to global standards. There are limited domestic facilities for high-end research, testing, and simulation. HAL dominates military aircraft production, leaving limited scope for private sector participation, which could otherwise bring efficiency, innovation, and competition.

 

Programs like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas have taken decades to move from concept to operational deployment, leading to the obsolescence of certain features. Delays often lead to significant cost overruns, which put additional pressure on defence budgets and make indigenous programs less competitive than foreign options. Excessive bureaucracy usually slows down India’s defence procurement and manufacturing processes, causing delays in decision-making and execution. Fighter aircraft production requires massive investments in R&D, infrastructure, and production lines, straining defence budgets. Adequate budget needs to be allocated for these.

 

Designing and manufacturing advanced fighter jets require highly specialised skills, which are still developing in India. Many skilled engineers and scientists prefer opportunities abroad due to better resources and working conditions. Issues with consistency and quality control in manufacturing have occasionally plagued indigenous projects. Indigenous aircraft often face concerns regarding reliability and maintenance, which can impact their adoption by the armed forces and export potential.

 

Competing in the international market is challenging, as buyers often prefer aircraft from established manufacturers with long track records. Indian indigenous fighters compete against proven and readily available foreign options, which usually have superior capabilities. Due to intense competition, foreign collaborators often hesitate to share cutting-edge technologies, limiting the depth of technology transfer agreements. India’s defence offset policy, aimed at boosting domestic production through foreign collaborations, has seen mixed success.

 

Way Ahead

 

India has made significant strides in indigenous fighter aircraft production but faces challenges in achieving global competitiveness and self-reliance. The future of fighter aircraft production in India lies in addressing these challenges with a focused, multi-pronged strategy.

 

Leverage lessons learned from the Tejas program to avoid delays and cost overruns. Support and prioritise the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, ensuring adequate funding, streamlined processes, and timely execution. Focus on Core Technologies. Accelerate the development of indigenous critical technologies like jet engines (e.g., Kaveri engine), AESA radars, stealth coatings, and advanced avionics.

 

Build a Robust Defence Manufacturing Ecosystem. Strengthen Indigenous R&D and technology development. Encourage tier-2 and tier-3 suppliers to build capabilities in aerospace components, materials, and electronics to develop reliable supply chains. Provide financial incentives and technical support to MSMEs involved in defence manufacturing. Promote private sector participation. Encourage private players to take on larger roles in aircraft production, from components to complete systems. Establish dedicated aerospace clusters in states to promote innovation and manufacturing at scale.

 

Enhancing Policy Frameworks and Governance. Simplify bureaucratic procedures to streamline the approval process for defence projects, ensuring faster approvals and reduced project timelines. Revise offset Policies to maximise technology transfer and industrial participation from foreign firms.

 

Collaborate with global aerospace firms to gain access to advanced research while ensuring knowledge transfer. Expand international collaborations and technology partnerships by pursuing joint development programs with global defence manufacturers, ensuring equitable technology and intellectual property sharing. Collaborate with friendly nations to co-develop fighter platforms suited to their requirements, such as light combat aircraft for smaller countries.

 

Provide diplomatic and financial support for promoting Indian fighter aircraft to foreign buyers, particularly in Asia, Africa, and South America. Ensure Indian platforms meet international quality and reliability standards to boost global confidence.

 

Leverage emerging technologies like AI and machine learning. Integrate AI for autonomous systems, combat decision-making, and predictive maintenance in fighter aircraft. Invest in hypersonic platforms to prepare for next-generation warfare. Adopt advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing and digital twins to reduce costs and improve precision.

 

Collaborate with academic institutions to create specialised programs in aerospace engineering and design. Establish dedicated training centers for skill development in aircraft production. Offer competitive incentives and research opportunities to prevent brain drain to other countries.

 

Establish a unified long-term vision for the users and defence manufacturing sectors to align production capabilities with future requirements. Ensure the production ecosystem is scalable to meet both domestic and export demands. Strengthen indigenous MRO facilities to reduce dependence on foreign firms to service advanced platforms.

 

Conclusion

 

India’s fighter aircraft production is at a critical juncture, with opportunities to emerge as a global aerospace hub. The way forward requires a balanced approach, combining indigenous innovation with strategic international collaborations. By fostering a strong industrial base, streamlining policies, and embracing emerging technologies, India can achieve its vision of self-reliance while contributing significantly to global defence markets.

 

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INDIA’S JOURNEY IN FIGHTER AIRCRAFT DESIGN & MANUFACTURE: CHALLENGES AND SUCCESSES

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

References:-

  1. “HAL and India’s Aerospace Journey” – HAL Publication. Documents HAL’s contributions to fighter aircraft production, including licensed and indigenous projects.
  1. Stephen P. Cohen and Sunil Dasgupta, “Arming without Aiming: India’s Military Modernisation”. Discusses India’s strategic approach to defence modernisation and its implications for Indigenous aircraft development.
  1. “Leapfrogging to Fifth-Generation Fighters: India’s AMCA Project”, Defence and Technology Review. Explains India’s leapfrog strategy in developing fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
  1. “Building India’s Aerospace Ecosystem”, Brookings India. It focuses on the opportunities and challenges of creating a self-reliant aerospace industry.
  1. Laxman Kumar Behera, “India’s Defence Industrial Base: The Role of Defence PSUs and Private Sector”. Explores the role of state-owned enterprises like HAL and private industry in defence manufacturing. Highlights challenges in India’s defence production ecosystem.
  1. “Private Sector Participation in India’s Defence Production”, Vivekananda International Foundation. Explores the growing role of private companies in defence manufacturing.
  1. “India’s Defence Industrial Corridors: A Game-Changer?” The Hindu. Evaluate the impact of Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh defence corridors on production capabilities.
  1. “Make in India: Defence Manufacturing Sector”, Government of India. Overview of policies promoting Indigenous fighter aircraft production and other defence systems.
  1. Kanti Bajpai, Harsh Pant, “India’s Defence and Security: Challenges and Strategies”. Provides insights into India’s defence production strategies, including fighter aircraft, and evaluates systemic challenges.
  1. “Challenges in India’s Fighter Aircraft Development”, LiveMint. Discusses delays, quality control issues, and reliance on imports.
  1. “Collaborations in Defence Manufacturing”, FICCI defence and Aerospace Division. Industry perspective on joint ventures and foreign collaborations in fighter aircraft development.
  1. “Technology Transfers in Defence: A Case Study of India’s Fighter Jet Programs”, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). Examines India’s reliance on foreign technology and the scope for indigenisation.
  1. “India’s Fighter Jet Ambitions: Lessons from Global Aerospace,” RAND Corporation. Compares India’s efforts with global benchmarks, offering insights into overcoming systemic challenges.
  1. “India’s Defense Industrial Complex: Time for Reform”, Observer Research Foundation. Analyses India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem and recommendations for improvement.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

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565:Chat with Mr Dinesh K Vohra on News Time About IAF Challenges and Preparedness.

 

 

I had a stimulating discussion with Mr Dinesh K Vohra

 In the News Times.

 

We talked about many aspects:-

 

  • Future of air warfare.

 

  • IAF Capability Enhancement.

 

  • IAF Modernisation plans.

 

  • Chinese aspirations and defence modernisation.

 

  • Chinese demographic aspects and no contact warfare philosophy.

 

  • Effect of Himalayan Barrier.

 

  • China’s defence infrastructure development.

 

  • String of pearls and loss of neighbours.

 

  • China-Pak collusivity.

 

  • Minimum deterrence value.

 

  • Defence budget and spending.

 

  • Capability development plan and process.

 

  • Lessons from recent wars.

 

  • Russia- Ukraine war.

 

  • Israel-Hamas war.

 

  • Changes in air warfare – use of technology and new domains.

 

  • Duration of wars.

 

  • Nuclear policies, capabilities, deterrence etc.

 

  • Hypersonic weapons.

 

  • CPEC and Chinese presence in POK.

 

  • Pakistan’s economy and military modernisation.

 

  • China-Taiwan-USA.

 

  • India’s Neighbourhood.

 

Link to the video:-

 

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

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References and credits

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Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

 

 

 

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