IAF - TARGET '42 SQUADRONS'

While the IAF's roadmap through Tejas Mk-1A / Mk-2, MRFA, and AMCA is conceptually sound, blending indigenous development with foreign procurement to manage risk and speed, the implementation may drag beyond the timeline. What is to be done?

- By MANISH KUMAR JHA

THE QUESTION OF THE INDIAN AIR FORCE (IAF)'S FIGHTER strength is wildly debated for the reason which is very obvious, even as we all begin to talk of unmanned systems in the skies taking wings and shapes. One of the key elements is the sanctity of the planning, capability roadmap, which puts the fighters at the core of its war fighting strategy. That works for all advanced militaries, including India, on the horizon, without exception.

The authorised combat squadron strength of the IAF has long been pegged at 42 squadrons to credibly meet two-front war requirements (Pakistan in the west, China in the north & northeast). While this is an estimate based on the prevalent situations, the need of the hour is to deliberate on a strength of greater than 42.

Currently, the IAF's active strength is estimated at around 30-31 squadrons, depending on how "combat capable/fully operational" is defined. Now, after decommissioning of IAF's workhorse—the MiG-21, it will stand at 29, totalling 464-522 fighters. This is about 250 short of the requirements of 42 squadrons.

Moreover, the IAF and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) have recognised that simply reaching 42 may not be sufficient in the long term. Some sources suggest that, in light of adversaries' modernisation and force multipliers (drones, missiles, 5th-Gen/stealth, space & cyber backup), a higher number may be required. For comparison sake, China's People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) operates more than 2,000 fighter aircraft, while Pakistan Air Force has approximately 500 fighter aircraft. Thus, the roadmap involves both retiring old platforms and inducting a mix of indigenous and Foreign/Make-in-India fighters to ramp up strength over time. So, what is the roadmap for such a complex mix of fighters and their multiple programmes for multiple roles in the IAF?