SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
A senior Indian Air Force (IAF) official, speaking anonymously to idrw.org, has expressed a preference for private sector companies to be involved in the production of the fighter jet chosen in the upcoming MRFA (Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft) tender. This tender aims to acquire 114 fighter jets for the IAF.
The official cited Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s state-owned aerospace company, as having a full workload. HAL is close to securing additional orders for 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, on top of the 83 already ordered in 2021. Additionally, HAL is responsible for the Tejas MkII program, partnered with the 5.5th generation AMCA program, and will handle the production of the HTT-40 trainer aircraft. Plans also include the HLFT-42 supersonic trainer program.
This significant workload suggests HAL may not have the capacity to manage MRFA production effectively. Several foreign manufacturers have indicated interest in the MRFA tender, with a focus on local production partnerships. Saab India and Dassault Aviation have explicitly applied for local production rights. Boeing is leaning towards collaboration with Mahindra Aerospace, while Lockheed Martin is considering Tata Aerospace.
The official’s statement suggests a shift towards greater private sector involvement in India’s defence manufacturing. This could lead to faster production timelines and potentially even more competitive bids from foreign companies seeking Indian partnerships.
However, the official also acknowledged that Russia’s offer of Su-35 and MiG-35 jets, which would likely involve HAL, has a low chance of success in the MRFA tender.
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