THE NEED FOR MORE AIRCRAFT FOR IAF

Given India's security imperatives, its significance as a regional player and its ambition to play a global role, the Indian Air Force needs various categories of aircraft, sooner rather than later

- MANISH KUMAR JHA

With its vast geographical expanse, strategic location, and growing economic significance, India faces unique challenges in terms of national security, regional influence, and economic growth. As the world's most populous country and one of the largest economies, India must ensure its defence capabilities are robust enough to address various security concerns. Central to this goal is the enhancement of India's aviation capabilities, both military and civilian.

And there is absolute clarity today of the global conflict--anywhere, any type—that wars are fought in the air and space and these are led by the frontier forces of combat jets or unmanned wings.

So, the necessity of more aircraft in various categories such as military jets, transport aircraft, surveillance platforms and civilian aircraft is becoming increasingly evident due to the evolving threats, modernisation requirements, and the country's ambitions in regional and global contexts.

However, the expansion of the above flying platforms does have implications for India's economic strategies. There are also other challenges in achieving this goal that need to be examined.

Growing Security Concerns and the need for Military Aircraft

India's strategic environment is characterized by multiple security threats, both conventional and non-conventional, emanating from its neighbours, notably China and Pakistan. The geopolitical landscape in South Asia has changed dramatically in recent decades, and India's armed forces need to remain technologically advanced to ensure a robust deterrent against potential adversaries.