IAF Accelerates Fighter Jet Procurement with Finalized Execution Model

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is reportedly nearing the finalization of an execution model for its long-pending Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender, a critical step towards acquiring 114 new foreign fighter jets with significant domestic production. This strategic move aims to swiftly bolster India’s air combat capabilities, addressing a shortfall in squadron strength and countering evolving regional security challenges, particularly from China and Pakistan.

The MRFA program, valued at over $20 billion, envisions the procurement of 114 advanced fighter jets. The unique aspect of this tender lies in its emphasis on “Make in India,” with a substantial portion of the aircraft to be manufactured domestically through a strategic partnership between a foreign Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and an Indian defense company. This aligns with India’s broader push for self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Several global aviation giants are vying for this lucrative contract, including Boeing’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and F-15EX, Lockheed Martin’s F-21 (a customized F-16 variant), Dassault Aviation’s Rafale, Saab’s Gripen E/F, the Eurofighter Typhoon, Russia’s MiG-35, and the Sukhoi Su-35. These aircraft are being evaluated for their multi-role capabilities, encompassing air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, electronic warfare, and reconnaissance, as well as their suitability for local production.

The finalization of the execution model is a pivotal milestone, as it will delineate the framework for the entire procurement process. This includes crucial details such as the extent of technology transfer, the precise role of Indian industry partners, production timelines, and cost-sharing arrangements. Defense sources indicate that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is actively collaborating with the IAF to refine these intricacies, navigating complex issues like intellectual property rights and offset obligations. The IAF reportedly favors a model that mandates significant indigenous content, with a prominent Indian partner, such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) or a private consortium, collaborating with the chosen OEM.

This accelerated procurement drive is an operational imperative for the IAF, which currently operates with approximately 30 squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42. The new fighters are crucial for replacing aging MiG-21s and supplementing existing fleets like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Tejas, and Rafale, thereby ensuring air superiority and multi-role operational flexibility. The urgency to move forward is driven by geopolitical realities, including China’s expanding air capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Pakistan’s acquisition of advanced aircraft like the Chinese-built J-10CE fighters.

With the execution model nearing completion, the IAF is poised to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) in the coming months, marking a definitive step towards shortlisting contenders and conducting comprehensive trials. This long-anticipated acquisition will be crucial for modernizing India’s air force and maintaining its strategic edge in a dynamic security environment.