Source: Indian Defence Review (WordPress)
Author: Chris Gupta
Considering the sanctioned strength of the Indian Air Force is 42 squadrons comprising of 18-20 jets each. It is disturbing to find out that we have or are facing a massive decline in Numeric Strength. At 18 jets per squadron the IAF should realistically have 756 front line fighter jets but delayed procurement’s see the IAF significantly short of its required strength.
The Sukhoi 30mki is definitely going to boost the strength of the air force significantly. It would make up 15 squadrons by 2019, in addition to this the IAF also also holds 3 squadrons each of Mirage 2000 and MIG 29, which are going through major upgrades to keep them operational till 2040. The Indian Air Force has also got an inventory of 4 squadrons of the Sepecat Jaguar which would also see major upgrades arming them with new weapons, avionics, engines and a radar. The good news in terms of immediate relief towards the declining numeric strength is the off-shelf purchase of 2 Rafale squadrons (36 Rafales). This combines to a total of 28 squadrons by 2020 in addition to some MIG 21 squadrons that may remain in service, however the major boost would be the induction of 120-128 Tejas Mk1 and Mark 1A which would push the IAF’s Fleet to 35 squadrons. By 2025 the IAF would have 660 top of the line fighter jets. Keeping current projections in mind it would be a good idea for the IAF to eventually increase Tejas numbers to ensure it has sufficient deploy able assets on both fronts. A purchase of 2 additional squadrons of Tejas or 1 each more of the Rafale and Tejas would do the trick.
The question of concern now is the timely replacement for the Mirage 2000, Mig 29 and Jaguars which in all combine to 200 jets for the IAF. Realistically even after the addition of the above jets the IAF would need 250 more jets as replacements. Therefore it would be interesting to see what option the IAF goes in for. With the Indians neglecting the purchase of 120 Pak-FA/FGFA/T-90, one should be curious to know India’s next generation jet procurement plans. The development of the AMCA and induction of 250 AMCA’s could be one option but would it be ready by 2025, would be the biggest question in contention here. Or should the IAF instead choose 125 5th Generation Fighter Jets in collaboration from a foreign country in addition to 125 AMCA’s. An interesting development was the offer made from Swedish Jet Manufacturer Jas Gripen to jointly develop a 5th Generation Fighter Jet. A logical thought could be a stealth version of the single engine Tejas which was an option that Dr. Saraswat had spoken of, he had recommended a complete jet body made out of radar absorbing composites, more weapons and a more powerful engine.
The perception is one thing which our military planners have lacked till now. Therefore addressing the shortfall with timely thinking will prevent a situation like this to crop up again in the future (2030).
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