IAF Chief Flags Chronic Delays in Defence Projects, Urges Industry to Commit to Realistic Timelines

Pratiksha Ghosh 

New Delhi, May 30, 2025: Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has raised serious concerns over persistent delays in defence equipment deliveries, urging the domestic industry to avoid making unrealistic promises that hinder India's defence preparedness. 

Speaking at the CII Annual Business Summit 2025, the IAF Chief emphasized that many contracts are signed despite a clear understanding that delivery deadlines may not be met.

"Timeline is a major concern," he said, reflecting on the Indian Air Force’s experience with delayed procurement, including the much-discussed lag in the delivery of Tejas Mk1A fighter jets by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). 

“Not a single major project has been delivered on schedule. At times, we sign deals already knowing timelines won’t be met,” he admitted candidly.

With a significant rise in technological advancements shaping modern warfare, Singh urged defence manufacturers to accelerate 'Make in India' initiatives while also pushing forward with indigenous design capabilities. “To meet our future needs, we must act now. 'Make in India' must happen quickly, while 'Design in India' evolves alongside it,” he stated.

He highlighted the rapid transformation in the nature of conflict, especially with the growing significance of drone warfare and emerging technologies. 

Operation Sindoor, he said, had served as a wake-up call, demonstrating the urgency of equipping forces with cutting-edge systems and the necessity to realign strategic thinking.

Singh also praised the professionalism displayed by the armed forces and other agencies during Operation Sindoor, calling it a “national victory” and a testament to the country’s unified efforts. “When you're on the right path and fighting for a just cause, everything falls into place,” he remarked.

The clearance for private industry participation in the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, he said, signals growing government confidence in the private sector and represents a key milestone in defence self-reliance.

Reinforcing the message, Singh highlighted the importance of Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing. 

“Global developments have shown us that we must depend on our own capabilities to meet our strategic needs. Indigenous defence platforms are the future,” he affirmed.

Joining the dialogue, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi highlighted India's maritime identity and strategic potential, calling India a maritime nation by geography, design, and destiny. 

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh also outlined ongoing policy reforms aimed at streamlining licensing and boosting domestic defence production, in line with the broader vision of a self-sufficient and developed India.

The summit marked  a collective resolve among defence leadership and industry stakeholders to strengthen India's defence manufacturing ecosystem and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.