The Indian Air Force (IAF) is gearing up for a major expansion, with plans to induct 114 multirole fighter aircraft (MRFA) within the next four to five years through a fast-tracked global tender. This move is critical to maintaining combat strength, as the IAF prepares for the retirement of 10 fighter squadrons by 2037.

A high-level committee, chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, has submitted its report to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, officially recognizing the urgent need for these fighter jets. The induction of these aircraft will complement India's indigenous fighter jet programs, such as the LCA Tejas Mark-1A and Mark-2.

IAF’s Future Combat Fleet and Expansion Plans

The IAF has set an ambitious target of achieving 60 fighter squadrons by 2047 to counter potential two-front conflicts. The following aircraft fleets are set to be phased out in the next 10-12 years:

• Jaguar Strike Aircraft
• Mirage-2000
• MiG-29

To fill this gap, the IAF is focusing on a mix of imported and indigenous fighter jets, ensuring self-reliance and technological advancement.

Fighter Jets Competing for the MRFA Tender

The IAF’s global fighter jet procurement process will likely feature limited trials to expedite selection. Several aircraft models from leading defense manufacturers are expected to compete, including:

• Dassault Rafale (France)
• Saab Gripen (Sweden)
• Eurofighter Typhoon (UK-Germany-Italy-Spain Consortium)
• Mikoyan MiG-35 (Russia)
• Lockheed Martin F-16 (USA)
• Boeing F-15 Strike Eagle (USA) – A new contender in this competition

Notably, most of these jets have already been evaluated during India’s earlier MMRCA (Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft) competition for 126 jets, which resulted in the induction of 36 Rafale aircraft.

Challenges in the Fighter Jet Induction Program

The IAF’s fighter strength has declined due to delays in the induction of indigenous aircraft like the LCA Tejas Mark-1 and Mark-1A and the phasing out of older MiG-series aircraft. Additionally, global supply chain disruptions—stemming from COVID-19 and ongoing geopolitical conflicts in Europe and the Middle East—have slowed down defense procurement worldwide, affecting production schedules.

IAF’s Strategic Edge and Future Outlook

The IAF has already inducted 36 Rafale jets, which have provided an operational advantage over adversaries. However, the planned MRFA inductions, coupled with advancements in indigenous fighter projects, will be crucial to ensuring India’s aerial superiority in the coming decades.

With an accelerated procurement strategy, the IAF aims to bridge the squadron gap, bolster combat readiness, and enhance its operational capabilities to counter evolving regional threats.

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