In a bid to strengthen its capabilities along the disputed border with China, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to acquire a range of locally made military hardware. Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, the Chief of the Air Staff, outlined the ambitious plans that include the procurement of mountain radars, long-range surface-to-air missile systems, new fighter jets, upgraded combat planes, light combat helicopters, tactical ballistic missiles, trainer aircraft, and close-in weapon systems.
The IAF’s initiative to introduce indigenous military equipment is anticipated to have a significant financial impact, with an estimated cost of up to ₹3 lakh crore, with an expenditure of ₹41,180 crore projected for this year alone.
The procurement includes plans to acquire 97 additional light combat aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A valued at ₹67,000 crore, along with 156 Prachand light combat helicopters costing ₹45,000 crore. Additionally, the IAF intends to invest ₹60,000 crore in upgrading 84 Sukhoi-30 fighter jets. These measures aim to enhance India’s defense capabilities in the region.
Addressing the ongoing situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari stated that the circumstances remain similar to the previous year. Consequently, the IAF will continue to be deployed along the disputed frontier until complete disengagement occurs. The military standoff between India and China, which began in May 2020, is yet to see a comprehensive resolution through ongoing negotiations.
The IAF closely monitors the border situation through persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) activities. They adapt operational plans dynamically based on the evolving situation and the buildup of resources and capabilities along the border.
Chaudhari also highlighted China’s extensive air defense network along the northern border and emphasized the need for India to counter it effectively. The IAF’s strategy includes the deployment of mountain radars at strategic locations to gain a deep understanding of the adversary’s territory.
The importance of a strong and credible military presence in the region is underscored by the volatile and uncertain geopolitical landscape. Chaudhari emphasized that the Indo-Pacific region is becoming the global center of gravity, presenting both challenges and opportunities.
As part of its commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), the IAF aims to contribute significantly to enhancing indigenization in defense production. Key focus areas include developing indigenous aerospace projects, improving surveillance capabilities, reducing sensor-to-shooter time, conducting long-range precision strikes, and harnessing space and cyber capabilities.
The IAF is gearing up for modern warfare, characterized by rapid technological advancements. It focuses on integrating new technologies, such as AI-based decision tools, electronic warfare equipment, robust networks, and space and cyber capabilities, to remain relevant and effective in the evolving defense landscape.
Sources By Agencies
