SOURCE: AFI
Jaideep Maolankar, a retired Naval Aviation Commodore and former sole and Chief Test Pilot for the LCA-Navy program, has expressed frustration over the slow progress of the Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) program. In a recent post on X, Maolankar highlighted the program’s delays and questioned the government’s intentions for India’s Second Aircraft Carrier (IAC2).
Maolankar emphasized the importance of the TEDBF program for the IAC2, stating that it is a crucial component of the carrier’s capabilities. He criticized the government for not sanctioning the TEDBF program yet, despite mentioning the IAC2 in the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meetings.
The retired Commodore also expressed his disappointment with the government’s approach to defense procurement, suggesting that decisions are often influenced by expediency and trick questions. He advocated for the sanctioning of the Rafale fighter jets first, while utilizing the funds allocated for the LCA Navy Mk2 program to accelerate the development of the TEDBF.
Maolankar’s comments highlight the growing concerns within the defense establishment regarding the pace of India’s defense modernization efforts. The TEDBF program, as a key component of the IAC2, is seen as a critical step in enhancing India’s naval capabilities. The delay in sanctioning the program could have significant implications for the overall development and operational readiness of the IAC2.
Maolankar’s comments highlight the growing concerns within the defence establishment regarding the pace of India’s defence modernization efforts. The TEDBF program, as a key component of the IAC2, is seen as a critical step in enhancing India’s naval capabilities. The delay in sanctioning the program could have significant implications for the overall development and operational readiness of the IAC2.