Stories
Delayed Fighter Jet Deliveries Hurting IAF, Says Air Chief Marshal A P Singh
N
News18•03-10-2026, 21:00
Delayed Fighter Jet Deliveries Hurting IAF, Says Air Chief Marshal A P Singh
- •Air Chief Marshal A P Singh states inordinate delays in inducting new combat jets, including Tejas, are depleting IAF's fighter squadron strength.
- •IAF needs 36-40 fighter jets annually to address gaps and aims for 42 squadrons, with hopes for improvement from Tejas Mark-1A and Rafale inductions.
- •Concerns raised over Pakistan-China collaboration on a fifth-generation fighter jet, though IAF emphasizes its own capabilities.
- •MRFA deal for 114 Rafale jets is targeted for finalization this financial year, with price negotiations ongoing.
- •If the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program faces delays, IAF may explore other options like Russia's Su-57, though no decision has been made.
Key Questions Answered
Inordinate delays in inducting new combat jets are hurting the Indian Air Force because its fighter squadron strength is severely depleting while modern security challenges demand greater air power. The IAF currently stands at 30 fighter squadrons against an officially sanctioned strength of 42.
The IAF requires the induction of at least 36 to 40 fighter jets annually over the next few years to halt the decline in squadron numbers and gradually build towards the target strength.
India cleared a proposal to procure 114 Rafale fighter jets under a government-to-government framework with France. The Air Chief Marshal expressed hope that price negotiations and the final deal could be signed within the current financial year.
