New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is pursuing an ambitious modernisation roadmap for the next two financial years, prioritising the acquisition of 114 multi-role fighter aircraft, new transport planes and advanced helicopters to strengthen its operational capabilities.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has indicated that several major defence procurement contracts are expected to be signed by the end of the current financial year, with additional programmes progressing over the following two years.
114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft in Focus
The proposed acquisition of 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) is a key component of the modernisation plan. The programme is expected to strengthen the IAF’s combat capabilities, with plans for domestic manufacturing under the Make in India initiative, potentially involving Rafale fighter jets in partnership with France.
The procurement is aimed at addressing the air force’s fighter squadron shortfall. The IAF operates below its authorised strength of 42 combat squadrons and faces the challenge of maintaining operational readiness as older aircraft are phased out.
According to the roadmap outlined in the report, the force needs to induct around 36 to 40 fighter aircraft annually to sustain its numbers and prevent its squadron strength from falling further.
Major Push for Transport Aircraft
The Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme is another priority, with a tender process underway to replace ageing transport fleets and enhance military airlift capabilities.
The IAF is looking to procure up to 60 aircraft with payload capacities ranging from 18 to 30 tonnes. The proposed acquisition is estimated to be worth approximately ₹1 lakh crore.
The programme is expected to improve logistical support, troop movement and the transportation of equipment across operational areas.
Helicopter Programmes Gain Momentum
The modernisation plan also includes continued induction of the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), intended to support a range of operational and logistical requirements.
Meanwhile, the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) programme is progressing through its design and development stages. The platform is intended to strengthen the country’s heavy-lift and multi-role helicopter capabilities.
Focus on Network-Centric Warfare
Beyond conventional aircraft procurement, the IAF is looking to enhance its capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR), as well as electronic warfare and communications jamming.
These specialised platforms are expected to support network-centric operations by enabling better integration of information from aircraft, drones, satellites, sensors and long-range weapons.
The emphasis reflects the growing importance of real-time intelligence, secure communications and electronic warfare in modern conflicts.
Air Chief Marshal Singh has stressed the need to accelerate capability development and procurement to address emerging security challenges. The proposed acquisitions form part of a broader effort to strengthen the IAF’s combat readiness, air mobility and technological capabilities over the coming years.
The timelines and final terms of the major procurement programmes will depend on the progress of acquisition procedures and the conclusion of the relevant contracts.
