Tue Oct 08 00:21:19 UTC 2024: ## India’s Aatmanirbharta: A Threat to Air Force Readiness?

**New Delhi:** As India pushes for self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta), the Indian Air Force (IAF) is facing a critical shortage of modern aircraft, raising concerns about national security. The IAF’s current squadron strength stands at a worrying 31, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42, and further decline is anticipated.

The problem stems from the gap between the IAF’s urgent need for 4.5th generation fighter jets and the slow pace of indigenous development. While the government champions the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan,” the ambitious goal of self-sufficiency appears to be overshadowing the IAF’s immediate needs.

While the Ministry of Defence (MoD) boasts of impressive indigenization lists, these lists are often filled with mundane items like nuts and bolts, instead of crucial technologies like advanced fighter jets and engines. The lack of a powerful indigenous engine for the Tejas fighter jet is a prime example. The IAF is currently reliant on American engine manufacturers, posing a significant vulnerability.

The delay in procuring 114 Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) further exacerbates the situation. The IAF’s reliance on an indigenous fighter solution is proving unrealistic, with projected timelines pushing the deployment of a capable 4.5th generation indigenous aircraft to 2032.

Despite India’s growing defence exports, the country remains dependent on foreign technology for critical equipment, including advanced fighter jets. This dependency is causing delays in critical procurements and impacting the IAF’s readiness.

The current situation calls for introspection and a shift in focus. The government needs to prioritize national security and ensure that the IAF’s needs are met immediately. The IAF’s urgent requirement for 100+ 4.5th generation fighters cannot be delayed further while waiting for the development of a potentially less capable indigenous solution.

The article stresses that the “Aatmanirbhar” mantra should not come at the cost of India’s national security. It’s time for a realistic approach that balances self-reliance with the need for immediate military preparedness, particularly amidst increasing Chinese and Pakistani aggression.

Read More