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.
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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“Modernizing the Indian Air Force: Issues and Challenges” – Journal of Strategic Studies
“The Role of Aerospace Technology in Enhancing National Security” – Defence and Technology Journal
“India’s Aerospace Industry: Present Challenges and Future Directions” – Economic and Political Weekly
Government Reports & White Papers
“Aero India 2025: Indian Aerospace and Defence Industry Report” – Ministry of Defence, India
“Aero India 2025: What to Expect?” – The Economic Times
“India’s Aerospace Industry in 2025: A Strategic Overview” – India Today
“How Aero India is Shaping Future Air Combat” – The Hindu
“The Role of Technology in the Modernisation of the Indian Air Force” – Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA)
“Challenges and Solutions in Air Force Modernisation” – Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS)
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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.
My Article Published in the Life of Soldier e-Magazine Feb 25.
The geopolitical landscape in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific region is undergoing a significant transformation in the emerging world order. In this context, India’s need for a technologically advanced and combat-ready air force is more crucial than ever. The impending Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) acquisition program, a strategic necessity, marks a critical juncture in India’s quest to modernise its air power. This program, which aims to procure 114 state-of-the-art fighter jets under the ‘Buy Global, Make in India’ initiative, is a pivotal step in addressing the IAF’s operational challenges, including an ageing fleet, numerical shortfalls, and the growing assertiveness of adversarial air forces. By integrating next-generation platforms equipped with cutting-edge avionics, superior weapons systems, and enhanced survivability features, the IAF is poised to significantly bolster its strategic deterrence capabilities and maintain air superiority in the region.
The MRFA acquisition is not a mere procurement exercise; it is a comprehensive effort to revamp India’s aerospace ecosystem. This initiative, which fosters technological self-reliance and bolsters the defence industrial base, is a testament to India’s commitment to its defence capabilities. With contenders such as the Dassault Rafale, Boeing F-15EX, Lockheed Martin F-21, Eurofighter Typhoon, and the Russian Sukhoi Su-35, the competition promises to be intense, offering India a wide array of options that blend operational effectiveness with long-term economic and strategic benefits. The program’s emphasis on indigenous production through partnerships with Indian defence firms is expected to stimulate job creation, enhance research and development capabilities, and position India as a global hub for aerospace manufacturing.
However, the MRFA acquisition is not without its challenges. Budgetary constraints, bureaucratic delays, and the intricate process of technology transfer and industrial collaboration pose significant hurdles. Moreover, the rapidly evolving nature of aerial warfare, characterised by the increasing role of unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and cyber warfare, necessitates a forward-looking approach to ensure that the selected platform remains relevant over the next several decades. The decision-making process must also consider the IAF’s evolving doctrinal requirements, interoperability with existing assets such as the indigenous Tejas fighter and the recently acquired Rafale jets, and the long-term sustainability of the fleet.
As India navigates the complexities of the MRFA program, it is a testament to the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its airspace. The successful execution of this program will not only enhance India’s operational preparedness but also strengthen its position as a credible regional power capable of countering emerging threats and contributing to collective security frameworks. With strategic foresight and meticulous planning, the MRFA acquisition has the potential to not just bolster but redefine India’s aerial combat capabilities, ensuring that the IAF remains a formidable force in the 21st century.
Historical Perspective. The history of India’s MRFA acquisition effort is marked by ambitious plans and evolving defence strategies to modernise the IAF’s fighter fleet. The origins of the MRFA initiative can be traced back to the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) tender issued in 2007, which sought to acquire 126 fighter jets to replace the ageing MiG-21 fleet. The competition saw participation from major global defence manufacturers, including Dassault, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Saab, and Eurofighter. After extensive evaluations and trials, the Dassault Rafale emerged as the preferred choice in 2012; however, contractual disagreements and cost escalations led to the eventual scrapping of the deal in 2015. In its place, the Indian government opted for a government-to-government deal to procure 36 Rafale jets in 2016 to meet urgent operational needs. The failure of the MMRCA tender to materialise in its original form highlighted the complexities involved in large-scale defence procurements, including cost considerations, technology transfer requirements, and offset agreements. In response to these challenges, the IAF redefined its requirements and reinitiated the procurement process under the MRFA program in 2019. The renewed effort sought to leverage lessons learned from the previous tender while emphasising indigenisation and the development of India’s defence manufacturing capabilities under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Unlike its predecessor, the MRFA acquisition focuses more on domestic production, requiring foreign vendors to collaborate with Indian defence firms to establish local assembly lines and facilitate technology transfers.
Overview of the MRFA Acquisition Program. The MRFA acquisition program is a critical initiative by the Indian Air Force to acquire 114 advanced multi-role fighter jets to enhance its operational capabilities and replace its ageing fleet of legacy aircraft. The program seeks to address the dwindling squadron strength of the IAF, which has declined from the sanctioned 42 squadrons to around 31, posing a strategic challenge in the face of potential two-front threats from China and Pakistan. Under MRFA, the IAF aims to procure state-of-the-art fighters that can undertake various combat roles, including air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare, ensuring dominance in modern warfare scenarios. The MRFA acquisition process is structured under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, emphasising indigenous production and technology transfer to boost the domestic defence industry. The IAF issued a global Request for Information (RFI) in 2019, inviting proposals from major aircraft manufacturers worldwide. The procurement is expected to be executed under the Strategic Partnership (SP) model, which involves collaboration between foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Indian defence firms. This collaboration will not only establish production lines within the country but also transfer critical technologies, thereby reducing dependency on imports and promoting self-reliance in the defence sector. One of the critical requirements outlined by the IAF in the MRFA tender is the transfer of technology (ToT), which will allow Indian defence companies to gain technical expertise in aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and future upgrades. The aircraft must be capable of conducting missions in diverse operational environments, from high-altitude regions like the Himalayas to maritime operations over the Indian Ocean. The MRFA jets must possess advanced radar systems (AESA), electronic warfare capabilities, precision-guided munitions, and compatibility with Indian and Western weapons. Additionally, the IAF would be keen on ensuring interoperability with existing platforms such as the indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and the recently inducted Rafale fighters.
Advantages and Necessity. The integration of Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) into the Indian Air Force (IAF) is expected to bridge several operational gaps while complementing the existing fighter fleet, which includes the Su-30MKI, Rafale, and Tejas.
The IAF’s sanctioned strength is 42 fighter squadrons, but the current strength hovers around 31 squadrons. The MRFA will fill this shortfall, ensuring better preparedness against a two-front threat scenario involving China and Pakistan.
MRFA will bring advanced multirole capabilities, allowing the fleet to handle air superiority, ground attack, and maritime roles seamlessly. This versatility fills gaps in specific mission profiles, especially when assets are stretched thin.
The Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) will be a critical asset for the Indian Air Force (IAF) in multi-domain operations (MDO), enhancing network-centric warfare capabilities. Its advanced systems, flexible mission profiles, and integration capabilities will enable the IAF to operate effectively across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains.
The MRFA will provide the IAF with cutting-edge technologies and weaponry to dominate contested environments. By combining advanced sensors, stealth, weapon systems, and network-centric capabilities, the MRFA ensures a decisive edge over adversaries.
The MRFA program is more than a defence procurement initiative. It is a catalyst for India’s self-reliance in aerospace and defence. By emphasising technology transfer, local production, and industrial collaboration, the program will strengthen the IAF and lay the foundation for a robust and competitive domestic aerospace sector, aligning seamlessly with India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
Timelines. The acquisition process encompasses several critical phases. In April 2019, the IAF issued an RFI to global aerospace manufacturers, marking the formal commencement of the MRFA program. This step invited potential vendors to submit details about their aircraft offerings suitable for India’s defence requirements. The next step in the process is the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) and Request for Proposal (RFP). Following AoN, the IAF hopes to issue the RFP by mid-2025, detailing specific requirements and inviting formal bids from shortlisted manufacturers. Upon receiving responses to the RFP, the IAF will conduct comprehensive evaluations, including technical assessments and field trials, to ascertain the suitability of each aircraft. This meticulous process is expected to span approximately two years. Post-evaluation, the IAF will negotiate with the selected vendor to finalise terms encompassing pricing, technology transfer, and local production under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Given the complexity of such defence procurements, this phase is anticipated to take around two years. Following contract finalisation, the establishment of production facilities and commencement of manufacturing are projected. The induction could start as early as 2030, based on fast-tracking. This timeline underscores the intricate and prolonged nature of large-scale defence acquisitions.
Interested Contenders. The MRFA program has attracted interest from multiple global aerospace manufacturers, with contenders including Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Boeing F-15EX Eagle II, Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, Lockheed Martin F-21 (a variant of the F-16V tailored for Indian requirements), Mikoyan MiG-35, Sukhoi Su-35 (Russia), and Saab JAS-39 Gripen E/F. Each aircraft offers advanced features such as cutting-edge avionics, stealth capabilities, and superior weapon systems, which are crucial for India’s evolving defence needs.
Challenges. The Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) acquisition program of the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces several significant challenges that could impact its timely execution and successful implementation. One of the foremost challenges is the complexity of the procurement process, which involves multiple stages such as issuing the Request for Proposal (RFP), conducting extensive evaluations and trials, negotiating contracts, and ensuring technology transfer under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. These steps are time-consuming and often subject to bureaucratic delays, which could push the timeline further. Another critical challenge is budgetary constraints, as the estimated cost of the MRFA program exceeds $20 billion. Allocating such a substantial budget amidst competing defence priorities, such as developing Indigenous fighter programs like the Tejas Mk2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), poses financial challenges. Additionally, fluctuations in the global economy and currency exchange rates could further complicate financial planning. Technology transfer and local production requirements also present challenges, as ensuring meaningful knowledge sharing and developing a robust domestic defence ecosystem will require significant investments in infrastructure and skilled workforce development. Partnering foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) may be reluctant to share critical proprietary technologies, potentially limiting India’s self-reliance goals. Furthermore, geopolitical factors play a crucial role in the procurement. India’s defence acquisitions must often align with its strategic partnerships and foreign policy objectives. Selecting an aircraft from Western or Russian manufacturers could have diplomatic ramifications, affecting relations with other key defence partners. Lastly, operational challenges such as integrating new fighter platforms with existing IAF assets, logistics support, and pilot training add further complexity. Ensuring compatibility with existing weapon systems and communication networks is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency. Overcoming these challenges will be vital to the success of the MRFA program.
Urgency and Review. Despite the government’s support, the MRFA program has encountered delays, partly due to the complexities of the procurement process and the imperative to align with indigenous production goals. In the meantime, the adversaries have inducted fifth-generation aircraft in large numbers and have already flown sixth-generation prototypes. Given emerging threats, investing in 4.5-generation technology may not suffice, advocating for a shift towards fifth-generation fighter capabilities. The indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project is underway but faces delays, with production not expected until the mid-2030s. In the interim, options such as accelerating the AMCA’s development or exploring international collaborations for next-generation fighter technology must be pursued with vigour.
Conclusion. The MRFA is a critical investment for the IAF to overcome existing operational gaps and maximise the potential of its current fighter platforms. Enabling seamless integration and interoperability would ensure a balanced, versatile, and future-ready air force capable of effectively addressing current and future threats. The MRFA program’s success lies in balancing operational needs with financial prudence. The MRFA fleet can remain sustainable and aligned with the IAF’s operational tempo by emphasising lifecycle cost management, indigenous production, and efficient logistics. This would ensure a modern, capable, and resilient air force capable of effectively addressing present and future challenges.
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Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS). Next-Gen Combat Aircraft for the IAF: MRFA and Beyond. CAPS, 2021.
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.
