Amidst ongoing modernization endeavors, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised with refined tactics and methodologies to address challenges along the Sino-Indian border, particularly in areas where it faces formidable Chinese strength and numerical superiority. Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, in a recent statement, outlined the IAF’s comprehensive approach to counter the China-Pakistan threat, which includes the induction of fighter aircraft, helicopters, missiles, and radar systems estimated at INR 2.5 to 3 lakh crore over the next seven to eight years.
The IAF vigilantly monitors the 3,488-kilometer Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, deploying Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to assess the evolving situation. China has significantly upgraded its airbases along the LAC, bolstered by a network of radar systems and surface-to-air guided weapons (SAGWs). Notably, the People’s Liberation Army-Air Force maintains a fighter and bomber fleet that surpasses the IAF’s capabilities by more than four times.
Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari asserted that the IAF would maintain its forward deployment until complete disengagement in eastern Ladakh is realized. He emphasized the adaptability and dynamism of their operational war plans, tailored to evolving circumstances. In regions where the IAF cannot match the adversary’s strength, it will employ superior tactics and training to mitigate the challenge.
Furthermore, ACM Chaudhari highlighted the increasing coordination between India’s adversaries, with Pakistan producing the Chinese JF-17 “Thunder” multi-role fighters and introducing 25 advanced J-10C jets. The two nations also conduct joint training exercises, as witnessed in the recent “Shaheen” exercise held in northwest China.
Nevertheless, the IAF remains optimistic and is actively pursuing contracts worth INR 1.72 lakh crore in the coming year to enhance its combat capabilities. These contracts encompass the acquisition of 97 Tejas Mark-1A fighters, adding to the 83 already ordered under a INR 46,898 crore agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) in February 2021. The total procurement of 180 Tejas Mark-1A jets, valued at INR 1.2 lakh crore, aims to offset the decline in the number of fighter squadrons, currently at 31, below the required strength of 42. Additionally, the retirement of the remaining 60 MiG-21 “Bisons” by 2025 is planned, and they are set to participate in the IAF Day flypast in Prayagraj for the final time.
The IAF’s initiatives also encompass a INR 45,000 crore project for 156 indigenous “Prachand” light combat helicopters capable of high-altitude operations, including Siachen Glacier and eastern Ladakh. Other contracts involve the acquisition of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (MR-SAMs), next-generation Akash missile squadrons, Pralay ballistic missiles, high-power radar systems, and five squadrons of long-range (250-kilometer) air defense missiles under Project Kusha, developed by DRDO.
In addition to the aforementioned plans, the IAF intends to upgrade 84 of its 260 Russian-origin Sukhoi-MKI fighters with indigenous weaponry, electronic warfare systems, and more, at an estimated cost of INR 60,000 crore. The IAF anticipates the delivery of the final two S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile squadrons, part of the $5.43 billion contract signed with Russia in 2018, within the next year, following a delay caused by the conflict in Ukraine. The first three S-400 squadrons have been strategically deployed in north-west and eastern India, offering defense capabilities against both China and Pakistan.
As the IAF commemorates its upcoming IAF Day on October 8, these strategic initiatives demonstrate India’s commitment to safeguarding its national security interests and ensuring a robust defense posture in the face of evolving regional challenges.
