An era came to an end on 26 September 2025 for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The last two squadron of the MiG-21 fighter jets of the Soviet period were retired. Now the Air Force has only 29 squadrons left. China and Pakistan are constantly adding new jets (J-10, JF-17, 5th Generation Aircraft) to their fleet. In such a situation, India needs to increase its fighter capacity immediately.
Recently there was a lot of discussion about the 5th generation fighter jets. While the US offered its 5th generation fighter Jets F-35, Russia offered its Sukhoi-57. Russia proposes that the aircraft should be constructed directly at the HAL Nashik plant in India. IAF 63 is considering buying Sukhoi-57. These aircraft will be equipped with air-to-air missiles and modern AESA radars. This will not only provide state -of -the -art technology to India but will also strengthen Make in India.
Rafael-4: France offered, production in India itself
The Indian Air Force has sent a proposal to buy 114 Rafale-4 fighter jets before the government. French company Dassault Aviation has offered to make all aircraft in India. India plans to create a global production and maintenance hub. These 4.5 generations advanced jets will meet the immediate needs of India.
Sukhoi-30 MKI upgrade
The SU-30MKI, considered the backbone of the Indian Air Force, is also being upgraded. New long-range AESA radars will be installed. Air-to-air and air-to-ground will be equipped with missiles. In future, they will make invincible trio in association with Rafael and Sukhoi-57.
LCA Tejas indigenous expectations
India has ordered 180 LCA Tejas from HAL. The contract of 83 has been signed in 2021 and 97 contracts in 2025. So far, delivery has not started due to slow supply of American GE-404 engines. HAL has promised to supply 16 Tejas MK-1A every year. Also, work on Tejas Mark-2 is also going on fast.
Future photo 56 squadron target
IAF has targeted to increase fighter capacity to 56 squadron in the next decade. In the future, India will have 150 Rafale, 200+ upgraded Sukhoi-30 MKI, 180 Tejas MK-1A and 60+ Sukhoi-57. All these aircraft will be equipped with missiles like BrahMos, Astra, Rampage and R-37M.
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