SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
For decades, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has maintained that its sanctioned strength of 42 fighter squadrons is essential to address the challenges of a two-front war scenario with China and Pakistan. However, in reality, the IAF is struggling to maintain even a 30-squadron fleet, far short of its desired capability.
In a conversation with idrw.org, an IAF official emphasized that instead of revising the 42-squadron benchmark downward—despite arguments about modern jets being more capable than their predecessors—the IAF needs to plan for an even larger force structure. The reasoning lies in the evolving nature of warfare, where modern air defence systems, long-range standoff weapons, and aerial threats necessitate a significant rethinking of force requirements.
When the 42-squadron strength was established in the 1960s, the technological landscape was vastly different. Today, advancements in Highly accurate, long-range surface-to-air missile systems make it increasingly difficult to operate fighter jets from forward airbases without significant risk. Precision-guided munitions and cruise missiles now pose a severe threat to grounded aircraft, requiring a dispersal strategy and enhanced air defence measures.
Given these developments, the IAF official stated that 42 fighter squadrons of manned aircraft alone would not suffice. To counter emerging threats effectively and ensure operational readiness, the IAF needs to consider an expansion to 50 squadrons, combining both manned and unmanned platforms.
According to the IAF official, an ideal 50-squadron force would consist of 42 Manned Fighter Squadrons that are Traditional fighter jets capable of engaging in a range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and interception. 8 Unmanned Fighter Squadrons that are Autonomous combat aircraft with capabilities comparable to manned fighter jets, capable of performing high-risk missions with reduced operational costs and risk to human pilots. Additional unmanned systems like Loyal Wingman drones support manned aircraft and mini-bombers for precision strikes. These platforms would act as force multipliers, enhancing the combat effectiveness of the overall fleet.
The IAF’s push for a 50-squadron force reflects the evolving dynamics of air warfare, where advanced threats necessitate both technological and numerical superiority. As modern air defenses and long-range weapons continue to change the nature of conflict, having a mix of manned and unmanned platforms is essential for maintaining operational readiness and strategic advantage.
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