India Eyes Indigenous Multi-Role Fighter Fleet to Bolster Air Force

India's government supports IAF's need for 114 multi-role fighter jets, advancing domestic production. Following controversy with Rafale, the plan pivots to a multi-vendor tender under 'Make in India'. This shift aims to fill the gap left by aging aircraft and address both northern and western threats.

The Indian government has acknowledged the critical need identified by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to acquire 114 multi-role fighter aircraft to bolster its fleet, sources revealed. This move aims to enhance the Air Force capabilities, which have been strained by a deficit of modern 4.5 generation fighters.

Government officials indicated a shift toward a non-controversial acquisition path, opting for a multi-vendor tender process under the 'Make in India' initiative rather than relying on imports. This approach comes in the wake of past disputes surrounding the 2016 procurement of 36 Rafale aircraft, which drew public attention and legal scrutiny over corruption allegations.

As aging aircraft like Jaguars, Mirage-2000s, and MiG-29s approach retirement, and with MiG-21s phasing out, the IAF is pressing for these modern fighters to address potential threats from both northern and western fronts. A final decision on whether to pursue additional Rafale jets remains pending given global supply demands.