Way forward for IAF's 114 MRFA

Conscious of serious capability gaps, India's Ministry of Defence (MOD) had announced formation of a high-level committee to address shortages in the Indian Air Force (IAF).

- ANIL CHOPRA (Retd)

For some time, the IAF has been grappling with the reduced fighter aircraft with the squadron strength coming to an all-time low of 31 vis-à-vis the authorised strength of 42.

The committee headed by Defence Secretary and senior officials is looking at the shortage of fighter jets, weapons, and other equipment and suggest solutions, including accelerating indigenous production, and selectively inviting foreign collaborations, amid growing security challenges from China, Pakistan, and now, perhaps Bangladesh. The report is expected by mid-March 2025.

Meanwhile China unveiled two sixth-generation fighter jets recently representing the next evolutionary leap. Pakistan plans to acquire 40 J-35 fighters from China, marking the first export of Beijing's fifth-generation jets to a foreign ally.

It could mean induction by around 2029. That will change the entire air dominance dynamics in the sub-continent.

China's potential sale of fighter jets to Bangladesh also adds to regional security concerns.

With delays in LCA program, IAF desperately needs the 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA).

MRFA REQUEST FOR INFORMATION

The Indian government issued an RFI (Request for Information for 114 MRFA in 2018. As many as eight aircraft responded to the RFI. These include the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Boeing F-15EX Eagle II, Lockheed Martin F-21 (a variant of F-16V with 14 India-specific customizations), Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, Saab JAS-39 Gripen E/F, Mikoyan MiG-35, and Sukhoi Su-35.

Most aircraft had already participated in the MMRCA competition, which was clinched by Rafale after beating the Eurofighter Typhoon on price. Rafale's naval version has been selected for the Indian Navy's two aircraft carriers as a replacement for its aging MiG-29s.

MOD REVEALS INTENT