SOURCE: AFI
India is currently in the process of evaluating options for the procurement of 110 multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) as part of its efforts to modernize and strengthen the Indian Air Force (IAF). The MRFA tender, estimated to cost around $25 billion, aims to replace aging fleet elements, bolster combat capabilities, and ensure air superiority for the next several decades. While the acquisition of advanced fighter jets remains an important component of India’s military modernization, a $25 billion investment could be allocated more strategically in several other ways to not only enhance India’s aerospace sector but also to bolster overall national defense and security.
Let’s explore how India can maximize this substantial budget in various sectors that will have both immediate and long-term impacts on the nation’s aerospace sector and the IAF’s combat strength.
ndia’s defense manufacturing capability has improved significantly with the establishment of entities like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation). A large portion of the $25 billion could be reinvested into the indigenous development of advanced fighter aircraft, such as the Tejas Mk2 or an even more advanced 6th-generation fighter.
Given the ongoing work on the Tejas Mk1A and Tejas Mk2, an additional boost in funding could accelerate the development of these indigenous aircraft, leading to faster induction into the IAF, and ultimately a home-grown solution to India’s fighter jet needs.
Investing $25 billion into aerospace research and development (R&D) could have far-reaching benefits. While purchasing ready-made fighter jets like those in the MRFA tender would quickly enhance IAF combat power, the long-term strategic advantage lies in creating a self-sustaining aerospace sector in India.
Funds could be directed into the following areas:
- Development of Next-Generation Aircraft: The focus could be on the next-generation fighter aircraft capable of fifth or sixth-generation technology, including stealth, advanced avionics, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence.
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): Investing in drones and autonomous aerial systems is critical to future combat strategies. Drones can be used for surveillance, combat, and tactical missions, which reduce the risk to human life while enhancing combat effectiveness.
Instead of importing 110 jets, India could use the $25 billion to develop world-class aerospace manufacturing infrastructure. By upgrading facilities, enhancing supply chains, and building new aerospace manufacturing hubs, India can attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in the defense sector. This move would not only boost India’s fighter aircraft production capabilities but also establish the country as a major global supplier of aerospace components and systems.
India’s combat readiness is not solely dependent on the number of jets it possesses but also on its overall tactical and strategic capabilities. The $25 billion could be used to diversify investments in other areas of military aviation:
- Enhancing Air Defense Systems: A portion could be allocated for acquiring state-of-the-art air defense systems such as S-400 missiles, surface-to-air missile systems, and fighter aircraft interception systems. This would significantly strengthen India’s ability to defend against any airborne threats.
- Improving Surveillance and Reconnaissance: Investing in AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control Systems) and tactical UAVs would improve India’s ability to detect and respond to enemy movements in real time.
- Upgrading Training Programs: Funds could also be directed towards upgrading training programs, including simulators and advanced combat training for IAF pilots, which are critical for combat readiness.
While the purchase of 110 fighter jets under the MRFA tender would undoubtedly strengthen India’s IAF combat strength, there are numerous ways in which India could use the $25 billion more strategically. By investing in indigenous development, aerospace R&D, and infrastructure, as well as enhancing the IAF’s existing fleet and tactical capabilities, India can build a robust and self-sustaining aerospace sector that not only meets current needs but also secures long-term defense and economic growth.