SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
he Indian Air Force (IAF) is aiming to significantly reduce its dependency on foreign weapons systems over the next 15 years by transitioning to domestically developed air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, as well as indigenous guidance bombs for both its indigenous and imported fighter jets. This initiative aligns with India’s larger push for self-reliance in defense, marking a decisive move towards local development and production of advanced armaments.
An IAF official, speaking anonymously to idrw.org, confirmed that significant progress has already been made in this direction, with state-owned defense organizations and private sector firms actively contributing to the development of these systems. However, the official acknowledged that a full transition to 100% Indian-made weapon systems for the IAF’s combat fleet could take 15 to 20 years.
The Indian government has been pushing for a strong domestic defense manufacturing base through its “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiatives. These policies are designed to encourage indigenous production across various defense sectors, with the IAF’s weapons systems being a major area of focus.
As part of this effort, the IAF has been collaborating with state-run defense public sector undertakings (DPSUs), such as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), as well as private defense firms. These partnerships are expected to lead to the development of locally manufactured air-to-air missiles, air-to-surface missiles, precision-guided munitions, and bombs. Some of these weapons systems are intended to replace aging imported systems, while others are entirely new designs aimed at boosting the IAF’s tactical capabilities.
Currently, the IAF is working closely with DRDO on several missile programs, including the Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile, which has completed various stages of testing and is nearing induction. The Astra Mk1 and Mk2 missiles are set to replace imported BVR missiles across IAF squadrons. Additionally, DRDO has been advancing the development of the Rudram series of anti-radiation missiles, designed to target enemy radar installations and air defense systems.
Other indigenous projects include advanced air-to-surface missiles, which will enable the IAF to conduct precision strikes on ground-based targets, such as enemy bunkers, ammunition depots, and command centers. Guided bombs like the Sudarshan laser-guided bomb and smart munitions are also under development and are expected to bolster the IAF’s strike capabilities.
While these initiatives are making progress, the IAF faces challenges in achieving a fully indigenous weapons inventory. Developing advanced guidance systems, propulsion technology, and warheads remains a time-consuming and resource-intensive process. Additionally, the IAF must ensure that these systems can be seamlessly integrated with both indigenous platforms like the Tejas fighter jet and imported aircraft, such as the Su-30MKI and Rafale.
Despite these hurdles, the IAF is optimistic that India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem is on the right track. The official noted that the IAF’s collaboration with private firms has accelerated the pace of development, and many products are approaching field trials. However, achieving a 100% indigenous arsenal will likely take 15 to 20 years.
The IAF’s shift to locally manufactured weapons has encouraged increased participation from private defense firms. Companies like Bharat Forge, Larsen & Toubro, Tata Advanced Systems, and Adani Defense have shown interest in contributing to missile and munitions production. The private sector’s involvement has spurred innovation and brought in advanced manufacturing technologies that are helping reduce dependency on imports. Additionally, these partnerships have created a competitive environment, improving the quality and availability of weapons systems for the IAF.
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