SOURCE: AFI
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of Air Staff (CAS), on Friday, emphasized the critical need for the Indian Air Force (IAF) to advance both the Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) and Tejas MkII programs as part of its broader modernization strategy. Speaking at a press conference ahead of the IAF’s 92nd anniversary, Singh highlighted the importance of ensuring these programs stay on track to prevent any adverse impact on the IAF’s combat readiness.
The CAS noted that while the IAF is committed to inducting the indigenous Tejas MkII, which is set to enter production by 2028, the MRFA project is equally vital. The MRFA program, designed to acquire 114 multi-role fighter jets from global manufacturers, is intended to complement the Tejas MkII and fill the IAF’s capacity gaps.
Singh stressed that timely progress on both fronts is crucial for maintaining the IAF’s operational strength. “The Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) is needed along with the Tejas MkII program. If the Tejas MkII enters production in 2028 and the MRFA deal is signed simultaneously, I think we are okay. We are not too badly off. But if these timelines are pushed, then we need to look out,” he said.
The MRFA project, a major initiative of the IAF, aims to procure state-of-the-art multirole fighters from international defense manufacturers to supplement the IAF’s aging fleet. The program is essential for replacing older platforms like the MiG-21, MiG-27, and Jaguar, which are nearing the end of their service life. The new fighters will provide enhanced air superiority, strike capabilities, and improved multirole functionality.
The Tejas MkII, an upgraded version of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), is seen as the next major step in India’s indigenous fighter development. Designed to have enhanced capabilities such as a higher payload capacity, better avionics, and longer range, the MkII will play a crucial role in modernizing the IAF’s fleet.
The IAF has already committed to inducting at least 120 Tejas MkII aircraft, which will form a significant part of its future combat fleet which along with 114 MRFA jets will play a crucial role in replacing MiG-21, MiG-27, and Jaguar along with that later even Mig-29 and Mirage-2000H jets that now forms over 200 jets in the fleet.