SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) ambitious plan to bolster its squadron strength by 2025-26 appears set to miss the target by a significant margin. This shortfall comes amid ongoing efforts to address the IAF’s fighter jet deficit.
The IAF initially aimed to induct nine additional squadrons by 2025-26. However, current projections indicate a considerably lower number. The sole confirmed inductions are two squadrons of Rafale fighter jets and one squadron of the Tejas Mk1A, the latter facing delays due to production issues.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Tejas Mk1A’s manufacturer, has offered a glimmer of hope. They have conducted the first test flight of the aircraft and pledged to deliver at least six more by mid-2025, with an additional squadron’s worth to follow by 2026. However, even with these deliveries, the IAF will still face a substantial shortfall.
The IAF currently faces a deficit of around 6 squadrons, translating to roughly 108-120 fighter jets. Even considering the planned induction of 12 additional Su-30MKI aircraft over the next three years, the gap remains significant.
To partially bridge the gap, the IAF is reportedly in discussions with Qatar to acquire 12 used Mirage-2000-5 fighter jets for active service. While this move might provide a temporary solution, it doesn’t address the long-term need for a robust and modern fighter fleet.
The outlook appears brighter beyond 2026. If HAL delivers on its promise of producing 16 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets per year, it could enable the formation of one new squadron annually. This would represent a significant step towards resolving the IAF’s fighter jet shortage.
The IAF’s current situation highlights the challenges associated with modernizing a large and complex air force. While the induction of new Rafale and Tejas Mk1A squadrons represents progress, delays and production shortfalls pose hurdles. Continued focus on indigenous production and strategic procurement efforts will be crucial for the IAF to achieve its long-term goal of a fully modernized fighter fleet.
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