Indian Air Force News – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in his address on April 23, 2025, detailed the Indian government's comprehensive efforts to modernize the Indian Air Force (IAF) as part of a broader push toward self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) and defence sovereignty. Below are the key aspects of the IAF modernization initiatives highlighted:
Indigenous Defence Manufacturing:
The government is prioritizing the domestic production of defence equipment to reduce import dependency, which Singh stated undermines national security.
Notable indigenous achievements include:
- Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas: A versatile, multirole fighter jet designed and developed in India.
- Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv: A multi-mission helicopter used for transport, rescue, and combat roles.
- Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) Prachand: A domestically developed helicopter for reconnaissance and light attack missions.
- Akash Air Defence System: A surface-to-air missile system for intercepting aerial threats.
- BrahMos Missile: A supersonic cruise missile with air-launched variants, enhancing IAF’s strike capabilities.
These systems showcase the expertise of Indian designers, engineers, and scientists.
Aero-Engine Development:
Aero-engine development is a priority to meet the IAF’s long-term needs.
The government is pursuing a co-development and co-production model with international partners, ensuring full intellectual property rights for India.
This initiative aims to overcome the technological and financial challenges of developing advanced jet engines domestically.
Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft and LCA Mark-2:
Special focus is being placed on developing fifth-generation fighter aircraft, which feature stealth, advanced avionics, and network-centric warfare capabilities.
The LCA Mark-2, an upgraded version of the Tejas with enhanced range, payload, and avionics, is under active development to bolster IAF’s combat capabilities.
Advanced Air Defence Systems:
Several indigenous air defence systems are at various stages of production and development, including:
- Astra Mark-2: An advanced air-to-air missile with extended range.
- Pralay: A tactical ballistic missile for precision strikes.
- SMART (Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo): A missile system for anti-submarine warfare.
- Next-Generation Anti-Radiation Missile (NGARM): Designed to neutralize enemy radar and air defence systems.
- Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS): For close-in protection against low-flying threats.
Singh noted that self-reliance has been achieved to a significant extent in these systems, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Private Sector and Innovation Ecosystem:
- The defence sector is witnessing unprecedented growth in both public and private participation.
- Private companies, startups, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are playing a pivotal role in defence innovation, particularly in technology-driven areas.
- These entities are becoming the backbone of high-tech warfare solutions, with their role expected to expand further as defence production becomes increasingly technology-oriented.
Adapting to Modern Warfare Challenges:
- The government is equipping the IAF to address challenges arising from a fluid international order and rapid technological advancements.
- Emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), hypersonic directed-energy weapons, quantum computing, drones, cyber capabilities, and space technology are transforming warfare, introducing unpredictability and lethality.
- The IAF is being oriented to counter these unconventional threats through advanced systems and training.
Strategic Vision for Regional Dominance:
The government aims to establish the IAF as a dominant power in the Indo-Pacific region, which Singh described as strategically critical due to the 21st-century shift of global power dynamics to Asia.
Modernization efforts are aligned with ensuring the IAF remains a strong pillar of national security, capable of addressing complex regional and global challenges.
Collaborative Approach:
Singh emphasized that achieving Aatmanirbharta in defence is a shared responsibility requiring commitment, collaboration, and a unified vision across government, industry, and the armed forces.
The Ministry of Defence’s efforts are yielding positive results, with increased domestic production and innovation driving the IAF’s transformation.
These modernization initiatives reflect the government’s strategic focus on building a self-reliant, technologically advanced IAF capable of safeguarding India’s national security and asserting regional dominance.
The efforts are part of a broader transformation of India’s armed forces, supported by a growing defence ecosystem and a commitment to innovation.