Font size:
Print
Empowered Committee for Capability Enhancement of IAF
Context:
The Empowered Committee for Capability Enhancement of the Indian Air Force (IAF), chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, presented its report to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on March 3, 2025.
More on News
- The committee identified key areas for medium- and long-term measures to address issues, including the fighter jet shortfall.
- The recommendations will be considered holistically, with the government open to taking necessary actions.
Committee Formation
- The committee was formed at the direction of the Defence Minister to provide a holistic examination of all issues and create a clear action plan.
- It was chaired by the Defence Secretary, with members including the Vice Chief of Air Staff, Secretaries of Defence Production and Defence R&D, Chairman DRDO, Director-General of Acquisition, and Deputy Chief of the Air Staff as the Member Secretary.
Key Points from the Report
- The IAF has highlighted the urgent need to address the shortfall in fighter jet numbers, which is crucial amidst rapid modernisation efforts by adversaries.
- Indigenisation and enhancing ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in the aerospace sector were emphasised, with the private sector playing a critical role alongside Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- The Defence Minister appreciated the committee’s work and directed that the recommendations be implemented in a time-bound manner.
Fighter Jet Shortfall
- The IAF currently operates 31 fighter squadrons, well below the sanctioned strength of 42.5 squadrons.
- The Jaguar, MIG-29UPG, and Mirage-2000 fighter jets will be phased out by the end of the decade, further exacerbating the shortfall.
- The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Mk1A deliveries have been delayed, while the LCA-Mk2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) (a fifth-generation jet) are still under development and at least a decade away from induction.
Induction Plans
- The IAF needs to add 35 to 40 fighter jets every year to fill the gap.
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has committed to producing 24 Tejas Mark-1A jets next year, with 12 Tejas Mk1As expected to be delivered this year.
