Fighter production delays will damage IAF capability, warns air chief

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh has sounded an alarm over extended timelines in the production of indigenous fighter jets, warning that such delays will adversely impact the Indian Air Force's operational readiness and strategic posture.

The air chief's remarks underscore growing concerns within the defence establishment regarding the IAF's ability to meet its force structure requirements amid the ongoing modernisation effort. Singh emphasised that maintaining adequate squadron strength is critical during the current transition phase as the service awaits induction of new combat platforms.

According to the air chief, the IAF should maintain a squadron strength of between 36 and 40 aircraft until production timelines allow for an increase in force levels. This holding position is intended to sustain operational capability while indigenous fighter development programmes progress toward fruition.

The comments reflect the IAF's broader struggle to balance its current operational commitments with long-term modernisation objectives. India's domestic fighter programmes, including the HAL Tejas development initiative, have faced successive production delays that have extended their timelines and raised questions about their cost-effectiveness.

The air force has been working to bridge the gap between its sanctioned strength and actual aircraft availability through a combination of operational efficiency measures and strategic procurement decisions.