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SOURCE: AFI

India’s aerospace industry stands at a pivotal moment, with several ambitious projects like the Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA-90), Multi-role Transport Aircraft (MTA), Tejas MkII, and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program on the drawing board. To see these projects through to fruition, there is a compelling need for a visionary leader akin to the late Manohar Parrikar, whose strategic interventions once revitalized India’s indigenous defense projects, particularly the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.

When Manohar Parrikar took over as Defence Minister in 2014, the LCA Tejas Mk1A was facing significant skepticism from the Indian Air Force (IAF). The IAF had been lukewarm about the project due to delays, perceived deficiencies, and the allure of foreign acquisitions. Parrikar recognized the strategic importance of an indigenous fighter jet for India’s long-term security and technological independence.

Parrikar was instrumental in building a consensus among all stakeholders – from the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), to the IAF itself. His approach was less bureaucratic and more pragmatic, focusing on practical solutions to issues like engine selection, avionics upgrades, and operational capabilities that the IAF demanded but felt were lacking in the Tejas.

One of his key moves was to push for the procurement of 83 Tejas Mk1A as an interim measure while waiting for the more advanced Tejas Mk2. This not only gave the program a lifeline but also sent a clear signal of government commitment to indigenous defense manufacturing. Parrikar managed to navigate the complex interplay between military demands, technological feasibility, and political will, ensuring the project moved forward.

Parrikar facilitated the acceptance of numerous ECRs from the IAF, which were critical to enhancing the capabilities of the Tejas. These changes included integrating more advanced weaponry, better avionics, and addressing other operational requirements that made the aircraft more appealing and suitable for combat roles.

The aerospace projects currently in development, like the RTA-90 for regional connectivity, the MTA for military logistics, and the advanced fighter programs Tejas MkII and AMCA, require not just administrative oversight but visionary leadership. A leader like Parrikar would understand the need to balance technological innovation with practical military application, ensuring these projects meet strategic needs while fostering industry growth.

The Indian defense sector often grapples with bureaucratic inertia. Parrikar’s success lay in his ability to cut through red tape, making decisions swiftly yet informed by expert advice. His approach could be crucial for projects like the AMCA, which involve complex technology transfers and international collaborations.

Parrikar’s legacy includes fostering closer ties between defense manufacturers and the military, ensuring both sides’ needs are met. This synergy is vital for projects like the Tejas MkII and AMCA, where the private sector’s involvement could accelerate development, reduce costs, and enhance innovation.

Each of these projects faces its own set of technological and developmental challenges. A leader with Parrikar’s approach would manage expectations, keep projects on track, and maintain the momentum necessary to overcome delays, much like he did with the Tejas.






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