IAF Seeks Urgent Resolution for MRFA Program Amidst Industry Concerns

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is making a renewed push for the swift resolution of the long-delayed Medium Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MMRCA) program, also known as MRFA, citing critical operational needs and concerns about the development of India's defence industry. The program, aimed at acquiring 114 fighter jets, has been in the works since 2018.

IAF officials have expressed frustration over delays in the procurement process, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the fighter jet shortfall. Anonymous sources within the IAF have voiced concerns about the impact of these delays on operational capabilities and the development of a robust private sector ecosystem in the defence industry.

The MRFA program is not just about acquiring new fighter jets; it's also seen as a crucial step towards building a self-reliant defence industry in India. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) envisions a private sector-led production line that can reduce India's reliance on state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for future projects, particularly the AMCA 5th generation fighter jet.

However, the lack of experience among private companies in large-scale defence projects has created a catch-22 situation. Private companies are looking to the MRFA program as a platform to gain experience and expertise, but their hesitancy to take the lead in the AMCA program is hindering its progress.

To address these concerns, the IAF and MoD are considering several options, including streamlining the procurement process, offering incentives to private sector partners, and providing a clear roadmap outlining the path from MRFA to AMCA.

The success of the MRFA program and the future of the AMCA program are intricately linked. By taking decisive action and addressing the concerns of the private sector, the IAF and MoD can ensure the timely modernization of India's fighter jet fleet and pave the way for a more self-reliant defence industry.

 

[Pink Panther]

They couldn't, even if they tried. Fifth generation fighters are pretty expensive. For instance, look at Czechia's F-35 purchase.

They purchased 24 F-35s for around 5.6 billion USD. That comes to just over 233 million USD per aircraft. This figure doesn't include weapon systems or training. Add in weapon systems, and you are looking at a price tag of 275-ish million USD.

We are buying 26 4th gen jets for $6Bln when they are buying 24 world’s only mass produced 5th gen fighter jet.

 

[KE-vO7]

They couldn't, even if they tried. Fifth generation fighters are pretty expensive. For instance, look at Czechia's F-35 purchase.

They purchased 24 F-35s for around 5.6 billion USD. That comes to just over 233 million USD per aircraft. This figure doesn't include weapon systems or training. Add in weapon systems, and you are looking at a price tag of 275-ish million USD.

Wrong

When the US State Department approved the sale to the Czech Republic in June 2023, the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) covered the aircraft, air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, spares, training, and support for an estimated USD5. 62 billion, while the actual cost quoted by the Czech MoD is USD 4.57 billion.