The Indian Air Force (IAF) is embarking on a comprehensive long-term transformation aimed at establishing a combat fleet dominated by domestic technology by the early 2040s.
This strategic overhaul is designed to significantly bolster India's aerial superiority within the region.
Reports indicate that the IAF intends to operate approximately 454 indigenously developed combat aircraft by 2040.
This figure represents roughly 60.5% of the total projected fighter inventory, supporting a parallel objective to restore the force to its sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons.
The Foundation: Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas
The cornerstone of this modernisation effort is a structured induction strategy led by the Tejas and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programmes.The light fighter segment will be anchored by 180 Tejas Mk1A and Mk1B variants, supported by 40 original Tejas Mk1 aircraft that will remain operational through the next decade.
These platforms are designated to replace the ageing Jaguar strike fleet and mitigate the capability void left by the phased retirement of the MiG-21 squadrons, which is expected to conclude within the next five to six years.
To meet these ambitious timelines, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has established a third production line in Nashik, aiming to increase the annual delivery rate of the Tejas Mk1A from 16 to 24 aircraft.
The Mid-Tier: Tejas Mk2 Development
In the medium-weight category, the Tejas Mk2 is set to play a pivotal role, with the IAF planning to induct 138 units.The Mk2 is slated to initially replace the MiG-29UPG squadrons, followed by the Mirage 2000 fleet as those aircraft reach the end of their service lives.
Furthermore, the Mk2 will likely assume roles currently performed by the upgraded Jaguar DARIN-III squadrons.
This methodical replacement strategy is intended to maintain continuous operational readiness while the IAF transitions away from legacy platforms.
Technical Insight: The Tejas Mk2 will be powered by the more potent GE F414 engine. India and the United States recently finalised a landmark deal for the co-production of these engines within India, involving a significant transfer of technology (ToT).
The Future: Stealth and Fifth-Generation Capabilities
The most advanced tier of the future inventory will be the AMCA programme, with a total requirement for 96 aircraft.The initial phase involves 40 AMCA Mk1 fighters equipped with GE F414 engines, with deliveries expected to commence around 2035 and reaching operational status by 2037.
The subsequent phase will introduce 50 to 56 AMCA Mk2 aircraft, featuring enhanced propulsion systems and more sophisticated avionics, with deliveries continuing through the late 2040s.
The AMCA represents India’s entry into the fifth-generation domain, offering stealth, advanced sensor fusion, and network-centric warfare tools.
Current Status: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) officially granted sanction for the AMCA project in early 2024, allocating approximately ₹15,000 crore for the design and prototype development phase.
Strategic Augmentation through Foreign Procurement
While the indigenous "Aatmanirbhar" push is the primary focus, the IAF is also pursuing international acquisitions to address immediate squadron shortages.This includes the planned procurement of 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), widely expected to be the Rafale, and the potential acquisition of 60 Su-57E fifth-generation fighters from Russia.
These foreign inductions are viewed as essential "gap-fillers" to stabilise the IAF’s frontline strength while domestic programmes mature and reach full-scale production.
Through this balanced approach of indigenous innovation and strategic imports, the Indian Air Force aims to achieve a formidable 42-squadron structure that is both technologically advanced and increasingly self-reliant by 2040.
