MRFA – Air Marshal's Perspective

March 9, 2025March 8, 2025

613: INDIAN QUANDARY ABOUT PROCUREMENT OF FIFTH-GENERATION FIGHTER AIRCRAFT

My Article was Published in the Chanakya Diaries, Issue 2, Spring 2025.

The world of military aviation has witnessed a significant leap in technological advancements, particularly in developing fifth-generation fighter aircraft (5GFA). These next-generation fighter jets are equipped with stealth technology, advanced avionics, and superior weaponry, allowing them to operate in highly contested airspaces. As global military technologies advance, so does the need for air forces to adopt cutting-edge systems capable of responding to emerging threats. Acquisition of such advanced technologies is crucial for maintaining air superiority and securing national interests. However, India’s path to acquiring fifth-generation fighters has been filled with challenges, forcing the country into a quandary about securing these crucial assets for its Air Force. This article delves into India’s dilemma regarding 5th-gen fighter jets, exploring the complexities of the decision-making process, the challenges posed by current defence procurements, and the country’s broader defence and geopolitical considerations.

Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft

Fifth-generation fighter aircraft represent the pinnacle of modern military aviation, incorporating cutting-edge stealth, advanced avionics, superior manoeuvrability, and network-centric warfare capabilities. These aircraft are designed to achieve air superiority while minimising detection through radar-evading features such as internal weapons bays, composite materials, and aerodynamic shaping. Notable examples include the U.S. F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, China’s J-20, and Russia’s Su-57. Unlike previous generations, fifth-generation fighters rely on sensor fusion, artificial intelligence-assisted decision-making, and high-capacity data links to dominate the battle-space. Their integrated avionics provide pilots with unparalleled situational awareness, allowing seamless coordination with other forces and unmanned systems. High-thrust engines with supercruise capability enable sustained supersonic speeds without afterburners, enhancing operational range and fuel efficiency. Furthermore, their electronic warfare and cyber capabilities allow them to disrupt enemy communications and radar systems. While these aircraft offer unmatched lethality and survivability, their complexity and cost present production, maintenance, and procurement challenges. Nations investing in fifth-generation fighters seek battlefield dominance and strategic deterrence, as control of the skies remains a decisive factor in modern warfare. As military technology advances, these fighters continue to evolve, shaping the future of aerial combat.

IAF Challenges and Necessities

Prevailing Challenges. India is a major regional player, and due to its unique geographical location and geo-political environment, it faces a collusive threat (from its two nuclear-powered unfriendly neighbours) with significant chances of military conflict. This unique position dictates that the country be able to deter her hostile neighbours from any military misadventure singly or collusively. Besides land borders being the main reason for the dispute, the security of the IOR region would also be a major security necessity. IAF would be required to offer options to meet India’s domestic and regional security requirements.

Air Threat. For a considerable time, the IAF enjoyed an edge in modern combat aircraft over its rivals – the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). This situation is changing with the PLAAF transformation, China’s investment in aerospace research and development, and aircraft manufacturing. China has inducted its two home-grown stealth fighters (J-20 and J-31) in large numbers and has already flown sixth-generation prototypes. Pakistan continues to be in collusion with China. PAF has inducted Chinese J-10 and JF-17 aircraft and has desired to induct Chinese fifth-generation aircraft.

Urgent Necessity. The Indian Air Force’s current strength is significantly below its sanctioned level. Its indigenous development of fourth—and fifth-generation aircraft faces technological hurdles and time delays. In the face of prevailing challenges, India cannot afford to lag in its military capability. The impending air threat from China and Pakistan has made the acquisition of fifth-generation fighters an urgent and necessary priority to enhance the IAF’s deterrence value.

Acquisition Efforts

Collaborative Effort. India’s journey toward acquiring fifth-generation fighter aircraft began with an ambitious collaboration with Russia. In 2007, India partnered with Russia to co-develop the Su-57, also known as the T-50 or PAK-FA. This project was expected to yield a fifth-generation fighter with advanced stealth capabilities and cutting-edge avionics, making it a crucial addition to India’s fleet. While India’s collaboration with Russia began with great optimism, several issues soon emerged related to cost overruns, development delays, and technological shortcomings, leading to re-evaluating the program. 2018, after years of joint research and development, India decided to pull out of the Su-57 program, marking a pivotal moment in its fifth-generation fighter aspirations. The decision left India searching for alternative solutions.

MRFA Acquisition. The history of India’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (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. 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.

Domestic Solution: AMCA. India has pursued an indigenous solution to its 5th-gen fighter needs through the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The AMCA is being developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Indian Ministry of Defence. It is intended to be a 5th-gen fighter with advanced stealth technology, super-cruise capabilities, and cutting-edge avionics. While the AMCA represents a step toward self-reliance and is seen as a critical component of India’s long-term military strategy, several challenges are associated with its development. The development of the AMCA has faced numerous delays. Initially slated for entry into service by the mid-2020s, it is now expected to enter service closer to the late 2030s. The project also faces significant technological challenges in developing a fighter of this sophistication. While progress is being made, achieving the same level of performance and stealth as the F-35 or Su-57 remains a formidable task.

Choices and Possibilities. Both the U.S. and Russia are aggressively pitching their fifth-generation aircraft. Besides outright purchase, India may explore collaboration and joint development programs or technology transfers (Stealth, Aero-engines and advanced avionics) that accelerate AMCA’s timeline. Limited acquisitions of F-35s or Su-57s focusing on training and operational familiarity while ensuring that AMCA remains the primary focus are also possible options.

The Foreign Procurement Dilemma

Given the delays and challenges of Indigenous development, India has to explore foreign procurement options for fifth-generation fighter jets. The United States, with its F-35 Lightning II and the Russian SU-57, has emerged as a potential source of these advanced aircraft. However, several geopolitical, diplomatic, and technical barriers complicate purchasing these aircraft.

U.S. Signals: F-35 Lightning II. The U.S. has been subtly signalling a potential offer of the F-35 to India. The aircraft first appeared in the Indian skies in the previous aero India 2023. Although Washington has not officially proposed a deal, diplomatic engagements and increasing defence cooperation between the two nations suggest that such a move could be on the horizon. Some analysts believe the U.S. could propose the F-35 as a deterrent against China, leveraging India’s growing security concerns to break its traditional reluctance toward American fighter jets. The F-35, developed by Lockheed Martin, represents the epitome of 5th-gen fighter capabilities. It is a highly advanced stealth fighter, but its suitability for the Indian Air Force (IAF) is debatable due to operational, geopolitical, and logistical factors. While the F-35 offers cutting-edge stealth, sensor fusion, and electronic warfare capabilities, making it a formidable asset against threats, its integration into India’s diverse fleet (Su-30MKI, Rafale, Tejas) would be complex and costly. The aircraft’s high maintenance burden, reliance on U.S. software and spare parts support, and logistical challenges in high-altitude operations raise concerns. Additionally, India’s deep defence ties with Russia and its commitment to strategic autonomy could complicate an F-35 deal. The U.S. has been selective about F-35 exports, prioritising NATO allies and key Pacific partners, making approval for India uncertain. With unit costs exceeding $80 million and long-term sustainment expenses, the F-35 may not be the most cost-effective option compared to expanding Rafale squadrons or accelerating the indigenous AMCA program.

Russia’s Pitch: The Su-57 Felon. Russia is presenting the Su-57 Felon as a possible solution for India’s air power needs. The offer is sugar quoted with an offer to reduce price, Integration of hypersonic weapons, ToT and easy payment options. The Su-57, initially designated the PAK FA (Prospective Airborne Complex of Frontline Aviation), began development in the early 2000s under the Russian Ministry of Defence. The aircraft was conceived as a multirole stealth fighter capable of air superiority and ground attack missions. Given India’s deep-rooted defence ties with Russia and its existing fleet of Su-30MKI fighters, Moscow sees this as a natural extension of its strategic partnership. However, India has been cautious about procuring the Su-57 due to previous setbacks in the Indo-Russian Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project. While the Su-57 has promising features, the program has faced several challenges that have slowed its development and deployment. The aircraft has faced delays related to engine development and avionics integration. Moreover, there have been questions about the production rate and the number of aircraft that will be built in the coming years. The Russian Air Force has been slow to field the aircraft, and it remains unclear how many Su-57s will ultimately be deployed, particularly as Russia faces significant budgetary constraints and competing priorities.

Comparative Analysis. The Su-57’s development and operational capabilities are often compared to the U.S. F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, representing American stealth technology’s pinnacle. While the Su-57 has similar features, such as stealth and advanced avionics, it lags in some performance areas. For example, the F-22 is generally considered superior regarding stealth and overall aerodynamics, while the F-35 is unrivalled in sensor fusion and multirole capabilities. However, the Su-57 holds unique advantages that could make it a formidable platform in specific scenarios. Its super manoeuvrability and advanced sensor capabilities make it highly suited for air-to-air combat and could give it an edge over Western fighters in certain situations. Moreover, its weapons capacity and the potential future integration of hypersonic weapons give it a longer-range and more potent offensive capability than current Western fighters.

Indigenous Effort.

Push for Indigenous Development: The AMCA Program. India’s exit from the Su-57 program signalled a renewed focus on indigenous development. Under pressure to modernise and enhance its capabilities, India pushed to develop its fifth-generation fighter. The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program was born out of this necessity. The AMCA was conceived as India’s first fully indigenous fifth-generation fighter. The project envisions incorporating stealth, advanced avionics, supercruise and multi-role capabilities. While the AMCA represents a significant leap forward for India’s indigenous defence capabilities, its development has not been without challenges. The program has faced technological hurdles, financial constraints, and inordinate delays. The prototype of the AMCA is expected to take flight in the late 2020s, with full-scale production not anticipated until the early 2040s. The AMCA is crucial to India’s long-term defence strategy. Its delayed timeline and high costs mean the country must consider alternatives soon to fill the capability gap.

Effect on the AMCA Development. India’s procurement of foreign fifth-generation fighter aircraft could positively or negatively affect the development of its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. On the one hand, it could gain valuable insights into the design and technology of a fifth-generation fighter aircraft, including stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and engine performance. This could accelerate the learning curve for Indian engineers and help improve AMCA’s design. On the other hand, foreign procurement could divert attention and resources from the AMCA project, as both programs require significant investment and focus. This could delay AMCA’s development as funding and manpower may be reallocated. While foreign procurement might provide a short-term solution, procuring it would reinforce India’s dependency on foreign technology, which contradicts the AMCA’s goal of achieving greater self-reliance in defence technology. It might also delay the domestic innovation necessary to produce the AMCA independently.

Procurement Considerations: A Tight Rope Walk.

India’s pursuit of fifth-generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) is a complex balancing act, requiring careful evaluation of strategic, operational, and geopolitical factors. Despite the aggressive pitches from Russia and the U.S., India remains steadfast in its commitment to self-reliance. The country has several valid concerns about acquiring stealth fighters from external sources. The procurement decision must balance national security imperatives with long-term self-reliance goals.

Financial Constraints. While the need for advanced fighter aircraft is pressing, India’s defence budget remains constrained. The costs of acquiring 5th-gen fighters—whether through foreign procurement or domestic development—are substantial.

Strategic Autonomy. India has historically maintained strategic autonomy in defence procurement. Outright procurement of fifth-generation fighters would increase dependency on foreign suppliers for maintenance, spares, and software updates. However, developing an indigenous FGFA is time-intensive and costly, necessitating interim solutions such as collaborations or selective acquisitions. Balancing these factors ensures India can act independently in future conflicts without external constraints.

Operational Sovereignty. Fifth-generation fighters rely heavily on integrated software, sensor fusion, and artificial intelligence, requiring continuous updates and security oversight. Procuring an FGFA from the U.S. or Russia may come with software black boxes, limiting India’s ability to modify or customise the aircraft to suit its operational needs. In contrast, an indigenous program like the AMCA would ensure complete control over mission configurations, electronic warfare systems, and weapons integration. India risks operational constraints without complete control in scenarios where its strategic interests diverge from supplier nations.

Transfer of Technology (ToT). India has consistently demanded significant technology transfer as part of its defence procurements. One of the most crucial considerations in FGFA procurement is access to critical technologies such as stealth coatings, advanced radar systems, and aero engines. Nations that export fifth-generation fighters typically impose strict restrictions on technology transfers to protect proprietary designs and maintain their competitive edge. India must negotiate deals that ensure meaningful technology absorption, aiding AMCA’s long-term development.

Interoperability Issues. India operates a diverse fleet comprising Russian, French, Israeli, and indigenous aircraft, leading to interoperability challenges. Integrating an FGFA with existing platforms is critical, especially for network-centric warfare. American platforms, such as the F-35, rely on proprietary Link 16 data-sharing protocols, which may not be compatible with India’s indigenous combat management systems. On the other hand, Russian fighters align with existing IAF infrastructure but lack the networking capabilities of Western aircraft. Any FGFA procurement must ensure seamless integration with India’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) while avoiding security vulnerabilities tied to foreign command structures.

Reliance and Reliability Concerns. Fifth-generation fighters require a robust supply chain for spare parts, software updates, and maintenance. India’s experience with Russian platforms, such as the Su-30MKI, has shown that supply bottlenecks can impact fleet availability. Similarly, reliance on the U.S. for F-35 components could expose India to geopolitical leverage, where supply disruptions may occur due to policy shifts. An indigenous FGFA would mitigate these risks. However, India must bridge the gap in manufacturing critical components, such as high-thrust jet engines and low-observable coatings, to ensure long-term sustainability.

Geopolitical Pressures. India’s FGFA decision is deeply entangled in global power dynamics. Acquiring an American fighter would enhance ties with QUAD allies (U.S., Japan, Australia) but could strain India’s strategic partnership with Russia. Conversely, a Russian FGFA might provoke U.S. sanctions under CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act), complicating India’s defence cooperation with Western nations. Thus, any procurement choice must navigate these external influences without compromising national security.

Way Ahead

India’s quest for fifth-generation fighter aircraft is emblematic of the broader challenges emerging powers face in the 21st century. While the country has made significant strides in developing Indigenous defence capabilities, the path to acquiring fifth-generation fighters remains fraught with challenges. The choices India makes in the coming years will shape its defence posture and air superiority in the decades ahead. While the AMCA holds promise for India’s long-term goals, the immediate need for advanced fighter aircraft means that foreign options, including the F-35 or SU-57, will likely remain in play despite the geopolitical and financial challenges they present.

India’s success in this endeavour will depend on its ability to integrate technology, manage its defence budget, and forge strategic partnerships that advance its security interests in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Given the complexity of fifth-generation fighter procurement, India must focus on accelerating the AMCA program while exploring selective technology partnerships. A dedicated task force with a top-down approach could ensure timely execution. Increased funding, private sector involvement, and strategic technology acquisitions could further bolster the program.

India must balance Indigenous development with the need for foreign procurement while navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. While India will likely continue seeking a combination of foreign procurements and domestic development, the path forward will require careful navigation of technological and strategic challenges. Ultimately, India’s ability to field a fleet of 5th-gen fighters will depend on its ability to balance these competing demands while securing the necessary resources and partnerships to maintain its regional and global standing.

Conclusion

The stealth fighter war is not just about aircraft but about India’s position in the global defence landscape. The choices made in the coming years will define India’s air power for decades. While Aero India 2025 will serve as a grand stage for the U.S. and Russia to showcase their best fighters, India must navigate this battle carefully. Whether it chooses a limited acquisition, a joint development initiative, or a complete rejection of external options, one thing is clear: India’s future in stealth aviation will be determined by its ability to balance strategic autonomy with practical air power needs.

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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.

References:-

Dyer, G. (2017). India’s Role in Global Security: An Assessment of Its Military and Strategic Options. Oxford University Press. Covers India’s military strategies and defence procurement policies, giving context to its fifth-generation fighter aircraft decisions.

Tiwari, R. (2020). India’s Aviation Power: The Development of India’s Military Aviation. Routledge. This book focuses on India’s aviation capabilities, history, and future trajectory, including the fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

Sarma, B. (2021). Fifth-Generation Aircraft and the Changing Nature of Air Combat: A Global Perspective. Springer. This book analyses the technologies and capabilities defining fifth-generation aircraft and how different countries adopt them.

Pant, H. V. (2018). India’s Strategic Culture and Military Modernisation: A Cross-Disciplinary Approach. Routledge. Offers insight into India’s military modernisation strategies and how they affect decisions about future aircraft acquisitions.

Bansal, S. (2022). “Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft: The India Dilemma”, Strategic Affairs Journal, 14(3), pp. 245-268. This article addresses India’s balancing act between domestic capabilities, foreign partnerships, and defence priorities regarding fifth-generation fighters.

Chaudhury, S. (2020). “India’s Ambitious Fighter Program and the Quest for the AMCA”, The Military Review, 102(4), pp. 60-75. A detailed analysis of India’s AMCA project and the prospects of its success in the context of competing international options.

Indian Ministry of Defence (2021). India’s Future Aircraft Procurement Strategy: A Vision for the Next Decade. Government of India. Government-published paper detailing India’s strategic requirements and procurement strategy, including pursuing fifth-generation fighters.

RAND Corporation (2021). “Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft: A Global Overview”. RAND Corporation. A comprehensive analysis of the global fifth-generation fighter market, including India’s potential partners and competitors.

IHS Jane’s Defence Weekly (2019). “The Future of Combat Aircraft: A Comparative Study”, 56(8), pp. 32-45. This report compares the capabilities of fifth-generation fighters, focusing on the Su-57, F-35, and AMCA, with a section on India’s defence procurement options.

Shukla, A. (2021). “India’s Fighter Jet Dilemma: Will AMCA Be the Answer?” Livefist Defence. https://www.livefistdefence.com. A detailed exploration of the AMCA program and India’s obstacles in developing its fifth-generation aircraft.

February 2, 2025February 2, 2025

591: TRANSFORMING INDIA’S SKIES: THE MRFA ACQUISITION FOR A FUTURE-READY IAF

Pic Courtesy Net

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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