New fighters, refuellers top panel suggestions for IAF

Quicker induction of fighter jets, midair refuellers and airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) systems tops the recommendations made by an empowered committee for capability enhancement of the Indian Air Force, people aware of the matter said on Monday, adding that the government is in the final stages of awarding a ₹67,000-crore contract to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for 97 more light combat aircraft Mk-lAs.

- Rahul Singh

“The panel reviewed every element of capability development and suggested measures to boost the IAF's operational readiness in a time-bound manner. New fighters, refuellers and AEW&C systems are among the top priorities. These platforms are in different stages of the procurement cycle,” said one of persons cited above, asking not to be named.

Defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, who chaired the committee submitted the report classified as “secret” to defence minister Rajnath Singh in March, days after chief of the air staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh admitted that the air force was “very badly off in numbers”, adding it must induct 40 fighter jets every year to stay combat-ready.