The serious showdown with the Chinese in Ladakh has once again brought into focus the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) growth and its challenges. Defence analysts are closely comparing the defence preparedness of the armies and air forces of the two sides across the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The media hype related to the induction of Rafale did raise the public confidence and nationalist fervour, but professionals must look at the ground reality dispassionately and debate the challenges and options.
Current state of IAF
IAF is today at an all-time low in the number of fighter squadrons. Already down to 30 vis-a-vis the authorised 42, the numbers would go down further if some more squadrons are allowed to retire because of low availability of serviceable aircraft. As far back as 2001, IAF had apprised the government for the need to acquire additional fighters. IAF at that stage was very happy to have the upgraded version of the Mirage-2000, an option that finally got foreclosed in 2006 when Dassault closed the Mirage-2000 production line after repeatedly checking with India.
The process to acquire 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) was finally initiated in 2007. French Dassault Rafale was the eventual winner after a fierce competition among the world’s top available fighters. 8 of the 36 Rafale have arrived and are operational at Ambala.
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