AMCA, Rafale and drones: IAF chief lays out India's air power roadmap

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh Holds Press Conference (ANI)

On the eve of Air Force Day, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said the force may have to look at other fighter platforms if there are delays in the development of the indigenous fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), as the IAF faces a shortage of fighter squadrons.“We may have to look at other fighter platforms in case of delays in AMCA fifth-gen, other programmes,” Singh said, according to PTI.The IAF currently has 29 fighter squadrons against an authorised strength of 42. Singh said the force needs to induct 36 to 40 fighter aircraft every year to address the shortfall.The Air Chief's remarks come as the IAF is pursuing multiple programmes to strengthen its fighter fleet while the AMCA is being developed as India's future fifth-generation combat aircraft.On the possibility of an alternative fifth-generation fighter, Singh said Russia has offered its Su-57 jets to India, but no decision has been taken on the proposal.Russia has publicly pitched the Su-57 to India, with Russian President Vladimir Putin also offering joint production of the aircraft in India. However, Singh's remarks indicate that the IAF has not taken a decision on the Russian offer.On the proposed multirole fighter jet acquisition, Singh said the deal may be finalised in the current financial year, but would depend on several other factors.

The programme involves the proposed acquisition of 114 Rafale fighters. The Defence Acquisition Council has already granted Acceptance of Necessity for the procurement, with the government saying the majority of the aircraft would be manufactured in India.The Rafale procurement process has since progressed, with India finalising its request for 114 aircraft. The proposed acquisition envisages around 90 aircraft being manufactured in India, while the remaining jets would be supplied in fly-away condition.

The government is looking to conclude the contract by the end of the current financial year.Beyond fighter numbers, Singh also highlighted the need to transform the IAF through emerging technologies.“We have to have AI-augmented force,” Singh said, according to PTI, underlining the growing role of artificial intelligence in future military operations.On drones, Singh said the IAF is increasing the number of drones and loitering munitions but does not see a requirement for a separate drone force.“Drones are not revolutionary to the Indian Air Force, but evolutionary,” he said.Singh said drones and loitering munitions should remain part of the existing force structure and operate alongside other weapons rather than being employed independently.Singh also stressed the importance of self-reliance for the IAF's combat capability.“Self-reliance crucial for overall combat readiness,” he said,Singh also stressed the need for an indigenous fighter jet engine, saying India needs to take a decision on at least one such programme.Talking about the flydubai captain Smit Machchhar, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said the pilot's actions were exceptionally brave and demonstrated strong resolve.“What he has done is exceptionally brave. He showed great physical and mental resolve. It is a lesson for us,” Singh said.