IAF Chief Urges Faster Defence R&D for Self-Reliance

NEW DELHI: Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh on Tuesday said India needed to speed up self-reliance in defence research, development and production, pressing the need in the wake of China unveiling two next-generation stealth fighter jets, which underscored the rapid pace of its military modernization.

"The world today is in a precarious position dominated by conflicts and contests. We have our own security concerns on the western and northern borders with increased militarisation by China and Pakistan," the IAF chief stated. Highlighting his country's advancements, he said, "China is investing very heavily in its air force; the recent unveiling of its new stealth aircraft is a case in point." He also expressed concerns over the slow delivery for India's indigenously developed Tejas fighter jets.

China flew the maiden flights of two probable 6th-generation fighters at Chengdu on December 26, showing tailless, stealthy aircraft in low-altitude cruise maneuvers. The development even surprised the United States, which has yet to finalize its own 6th-generation fighter program. With operational and stationed 5th-generation Chengdu J-20 fighters at airfields near India, such as Hotan and Shigatse, China's air force continues to expand its capabilities.

India is still far behind in developing a 5th-generation fighter. In fact, last year, only the Cabinet Committee on Security led by the PM sanctioned the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project costing over ₹15,000 crores. Four to five years from now the first prototype is expected to take to the air, and inducting or producing it would only be after 2035.

The country fails to make 4th generation Tejas Mark-1A fighters while waiting for the delivery of GE-F404 engines by General Electric, where the supply schedule is already a few years delayed. With a sanctioned strength of 42.5, IAF currently has only 30 fighter squadrons and would have at least 180 Tejas Mark-1A and 108 Mark-2 fighters by the induction.

Addressing these challenges, IAF chief underlined the importance of R&D on time. "R&D loses its relevance in case it is not able to meet time-lines. Technology delayed is technology denied," he remarked. He also asked for higher risk tolerance in R&D, adding, "Atmanirbharta will come at a cost, and we should accept it. We may have to spend more and buy at a higher rate if required—amortising of the R&D part and limited numbers will push the cost up—but will give the much-needed self-reliance."