There is no doubt that the Indian Air Force (IAF) is facing multiple challenges. It currently has a shortage of fighter jets, and its indigenous fighter jet programs are not progressing as quickly as planned. Russia’s involvement in the Ukraine war has delayed the timely supply of crucial weapons. Meanwhile, China and Pakistan are reportedly collaborating, with China planning to provide its fifth-generation fighter jets J-20 and J-35 to Pakistan.
Relations with the United States are also strained due to tariff disputes, causing delays in acquiring some critical defense equipment. However, experts say there is no need to worry, as the next 10 years will see a significant transformation. India is preparing to become a super air power, and key steps have already been taken.
India on the Path to Becoming a Super Air Power
India has already begun strengthening its Air Force for the future. By 2035, the IAF fleet is expected to include:
- 160 fifth-generation Russian Sukhoi-57 fighter jets
- 110 units of the advanced S-400 defense system
- 210+ indigenous Tejas fighter jets
- 1Around 40 indigenous fifth-generation AMCA fighter jets
This robust plan is expected to challenge China and Pakistan strategically, especially given China’s pride in its J-35 fighter jet program. India’s AMCA program is considered nearly a sixth-generation fighter jet initiative, surpassing current fifth-generation standards.
150+ Rafale Jets
India currently has 36 Rafale jets and is finalizing a deal with France for 114 more jets. Initial deliveries will arrive directly from France, with the remaining jets to be manufactured in India. The deal is worth around ₹3 lakh crore, and India has also acquired 26 marine Rafales for the Navy.
60 Sukhoi-57 Jets
After the Rafale deal, India is also acquiring 60 Sukhoi-57E jets from Russia, which are fifth-generation fighters. This purchase aims to counter the China-Pakistan alliance in advanced aerial capabilities. Reports suggest India will manufacture a portion of these jets locally, leveraging existing infrastructure from the Sukhoi-30MKI program.
10 S-400 Defense Systems
India is also focused on building a full-proof air defense network. The country has already received three S-400 systems, with two more units expected soon. Additionally, India is preparing to acquire five more S-400 systems, totaling 10 units to ensure airspace security.
Tejas MK1A and MK-2 Jets
India’s indigenous Tejas program is progressing rapidly. The Air Force will soon receive Tejas MK1A jets, with an initial order of 73 units and an additional 97 units in the pipeline. The Tejas MK-2 prototype is expected to fly this year, designed to match Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon standards. By 2030, over 210 Tejas jets will be operational in the IAF.
Indigenous Fifth-Generation AMCA Jets
India recently approved the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, allocating ₹15,000 crore initially. The DRDO is working on developing the prototype by 2030. After modifications based on Air Force inputs, the jets are expected to join the fleet by 2035. The AMCA will incorporate extensive AI technology, making them 5.5-generation fighter jets, far ahead of China’s J-35.
India’s Strategic Edge
With Rafale, Sukhoi-57, Tejas, and AMCA jets, along with the S-400 defense system, India is laying the foundation for a super air force. This multi-pronged approach strengthens both offense and defense capabilities, ensuring India is well-prepared to counter regional threats from China and Pakistan.
Here's why this move matters...
This isn’t a routine land acquisition... It’s a forward military posturing.
Admiral still hasnt provided mithai tauba tauba.