IAF Deploys Tejas Mk1 Fighters to Western Border for Frontline Role as MiG-21s Begin Phased Retirement

In a significant move, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed its Tejas Mk1 fighter jets to frontline airbases along the western border with Pakistan. This strategic deployment comes as the IAF begins phasing out its aging MiG-21 fleet, with a complete withdrawal expected by 2026.

The Tejas, indigenously developed and equipped with modern technology, is stepping up to fill the gap and enhance the IAF's air defen e capabilities in the region.

The IAF has recently relocated its Final Operational Clearance (FOC) Tejas Mk1 fighters from their southern bases to the western sector, with a particular focus on supporting operations at the Jamnagar Air Force Station.

This station is becoming a hub for integrating new and existing assets as the MiG-21s, renowned for their long service but now nearing the end of their operational life, are gradually withdrawn from service.

The Tejas Mk1 FOC variants deployed to the western border are armed with advanced air-to-air missiles like the Rafael Derby and the Vympel R-77 (AA-12 Adder), ensuring they are combat-ready. This armament significantly enhances their operational effectiveness compared to the MiG-21s they are replacing.

Looking ahead, the Nal Airbase in Rajasthan is set to become the first base to host the upgraded Tejas Mk1A. This variant boasts even more advanced features, including an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, and is slated for official induction into the IAF by March 2025.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has committed to delivering at least four of these aircraft initially, establishing a permanent Tejas Mk1A presence in the region facing Pakistan.

The deployment of Tejas fighters is strategically timed to coincide with the phasing out of the MiG-21s, ensuring seamless air defence coverage along the western border. The Tejas will take over many of the operational roles previously held by the MiG-21s, particularly in low to medium threat environments where their agility and modern systems are most effective.

This move not only strengthens the IAF's combat readiness but also serves as a deterrent. The Tejas' capabilities in terms of range, maneuverability, and advanced weaponry make it a formidable asset in maintaining air superiority.

With the Tejas Mk1A on the horizon, the IAF is clearly focused on future conflicts with an emphasis on technology and indigenous development. This reduces its dependency on foreign aircraft and strengthens national security through self-reliance. The Tejas program represents a significant step forward in India's journey towards becoming a major aerospace power.

 

[R. Singh]

Upgrade these MK-I fighters to 1A standards asap !

 

[sanket]

This 16 FOC & 16 IOC = 32 Tejas should be upgraded to Tejas MK1A standard, capable of firing Astra MK1 as well as the Python-5 missile.

 

[Rinku Pandey]

Mig 21 won't be retiring for next 15 years. End of life?

 

[Radha Ramanan]

The LCA FOC series can only fire the Derby, R-73, and Python-5. Python-5 was also integrated after teething problems. The Astra is being integrated as well. I don't seem to have seen any LCA with Astra on it apart from the Aero India model. The first launch was in Goa in August 2023. It's going to take some time for full integration.

LCA cannot fire the Russian R-77; it's false news. Integrating the radar-guided R-77 is impossible unless the Russians help us with the integration. Anyway, that's an old missile, and the IAF was not happy with its performance and reliability. The Russians also initially helped with the R-73 integration then pulled out. Some "juggad" was done, and R-73 was integrated. It's no use having the R-73 missile without integrating it with the radar for a cue and, most importantly, the HMS (helmet-mounted sight) for having a look-to-shoot ability, which is a tremendous advantage in dogfighting. The Israelis, being masters in "jugad," helped in doing that. The R-73, though old, is a good missile and was way ahead of any CCM of the west when it was introduced, and the west got a nasty shock when they learned about its capability after they examined and debriefed East German MiG-29 pilots when East and West Germany came together.

Again, the LCA MK1A will never go to the frontline fighter bases as mentioned, and definitely not 4 in number. The procedure is that squadron pilots have to first be converted to the LCA as the LCA is a modern fighter. The airbase at Sulur in India near Coimbatore is an LCA conversion base. There they will hone their skills in flying and the various multitude of roles that the LCA is capable of performing. Then, when the squadron is Ops ready, the squadron will be moved to a frontline base.

 

[Bharath Kumar]

Mig 21 won't be retiring for next 15 years. End of life?

Balls mig 21s are already retired only few left TEJAS will be replaced.

 

[tipoo2]

Mig 21 won't be retiring for next 15 years. End of life?

15 years 😭

If our Mig21 ever faces a fifth gen jet we should just pack up and quit and disband the IAF.

 

[Sandeep]

It’s great that we are reinforcing our squadron strength as this jet was designed to be on the frontlines and intercept any threats straight away. It has an excellent combat capability with the latest technology and weapons systems. We now need to develop more of our own technology and manufacture more with indigenous content as soon as possible.