In a bold declaration on the eve of the 92nd Indian Air Force Day, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh unveiled the IAF's ambitious vision for 2047: a fully indigenous fleet of fighter aircraft, advanced UAVs, and cutting-edge weaponry.
This goal, announced during a comprehensive press conference held days before the annual celebrations on October 8th, aligns with India's broader "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative.
Air Marshal Singh emphasized that this vision extends beyond simply replacing imported platforms. "By 2047, we envision an Indian Air Force that operates with a fully indigenous inventory," he stated, highlighting the need for homegrown technologies capable of meeting the evolving challenges of modern aerial warfare. This ambitious plan will rely on continued collaboration between the IAF, Indian industry, and research institutions.
The IAF is already making significant strides towards this goal. The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), now an integral part of the IAF's fleet, exemplifies India's growing aerospace capabilities.
The upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, is poised to be a cornerstone of this indigenous future. Air Marshal Singh provided updates on the AMCA program, confirming close collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private sector partners to ensure its timely development and induction.
Beyond fighter jets, the IAF is prioritizing indigenous development across all domains. The Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) is already in service, with more advanced variants under development. Similarly, indigenous radar systems, air defense systems, and electronic warfare platforms are being rapidly developed and deployed.
The Chief acknowledged the challenges ahead, including sustained investment in research and development, navigating global supply chain disruptions, and ensuring the timely delivery of critical platforms. He expressed confidence, however, in the potential of India's burgeoning defense industry and the growing synergy between the public and private sectors.
This announcement comes at a time when India is increasingly asserting its aerospace prowess. The successful development and induction of the Tejas LCA, coupled with the ongoing AMCA program, signal India's determination to become a major player in the global defence industry.
