SOURCE: AFI
Recent satellite images have ignited a spirited debate within the Indian defense community, revealing what appears to be a mockup of a fighter jet at Bareilly Air Force Station in Uttar Pradesh. The central question among enthusiasts and experts alike: Is this a decoy of the Dassault Rafale or the indigenous HAL Tejas MkII?
The images, which have circulated widely on platforms like Reddit, show a fighter jet silhouette that has led to a split in opinions. One user pointed out, “What’s a decoy of a Rafale doing at Bareilly, they don’t even operate out of there,” highlighting the peculiarity since Bareilly is not known to host Rafale squadrons.
However, another perspective was offered by a user who scrutinized the details, stating, “Every Rafale has rails on its wingtip for MICA IR. It’s not visible here, not even in shadow I can see it, but it’s still hard to guess if it’s Mk2 or something!” This observation suggests that the aircraft might not be a perfect match for the Rafale, leading some to speculate it could be a mockup of the upcoming Tejas MkII.
Adding another layer to the discussion, a comment read, “Mockup, mockups like this are used for training ground crew on how to handle aircraft and park inside HAS (Hardened Aircraft Shelters).” This explanation offers a practical reason for the presence of such a mockup, emphasizing the training aspect of military operations.
The lack of MICA missile rails on the wingtips, as noted by observers, could indicate that this is not a Rafale mockup. However, the quality and angle of satellite imagery can sometimes obscure such details. Bareilly Air Force Station, part of the Central Air Command, is known for housing Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighters and other aircraft but not Rafales. This raises questions about why a Rafale mockup would be there unless it’s for a specific training or strategic purpose not immediately apparent.
The use of mockups for training ground crew in aircraft handling, maintenance, and parking procedures is a common practice. It allows for realistic training scenarios without risking actual aircraft.If indeed a Rafale mockup, it might be part of an extended training program or preparation for potential future deployments.
If the mockup is of the Tejas MkII, it could signify that the Indian Air Force is already laying the groundwork for integrating this advanced version into its fleet, focusing on operational readiness. : There’s also the possibility that this is a deliberate decoy to mislead potential adversaries about the deployment or capabilities at Bareilly, showcasing India’s advanced in deception tactics.
The presence of the fighter jet mockup at Bareilly Air Force Station has provided fodder for speculation and debate. Whether it’s a strategic move, training preparation, or a deceptive measure, it underscores the complexities of modern military operations where even the sighting of a mockup can send ripples through the defense community. As discussions continue, the exact identity and purpose of this mockup remain a tantalizing mystery, reflecting the ongoing evolution of India’s air force capabilities.