Mon Oct 20 06:51:25 UTC 2025: News Article:
IAF Grapples with Fighter Jet Shortfall as MiG-21 Retires, Tejas Deliveries Lag
New Delhi, October 20, 2025 – The Indian Air Force (IAF) is facing a critical shortage of fighter squadrons following the official decommissioning of the iconic MiG-21 Bison after 62 years of service. A formal ceremony at Chandigarh Air Force Station last month marked the end of an era for the Soviet-era jet, which played a crucial role in numerous Indian conflicts, but also highlighted the urgent need for replacements.
The IAF currently operates 29 fighter squadrons, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42, marking the lowest number since the 1960s. The indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A is intended to fill this gap, but delays in production and deliveries are exacerbating the problem.
This week, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) celebrated the maiden flight of the Tejas Mk1A in Nashik. The upgraded Tejas boasts superior radar and enhanced maintainability. However, even if all goes according to plan, full delivery of the 83 Mk1A aircraft currently on order is not expected until 2029. Contract negotiations are in the final stage with GE for an additional 97 Tejas jets. The IAF expects the delivery of 12 Tejas Mk1A by March 2026.
Experts caution that the Tejas Mk1A, while a welcome addition, is only a 4 to 4.5 generation aircraft, lagging behind advancements made by countries like China. Focus is on indigenous development of advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA) and engine solutions as top priority.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has stated that the MiG-21’s legacy will inspire the development of indigenous fighters. The AMCA, India’s first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter expected to enter service by 2035, represents India’s ambition to compete in the high-end aerospace domain.
In the interim, the government is reportedly considering a contract for 114 Rafale fighter jets, with deliveries expected as early as next fiscal year to address immediate needs.
Air Vice Marshal Anil Golani (retired), director general of the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS), stressed the need for fast-tracked procurement of multirole fighter aircraft and increased indigenous capability in long-range standoff weapons. He added that there’s significant interest from various countries for India-made LCAs.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by India in modernizing its air force and maintaining a combat edge amidst evolving geopolitical realities.
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