In a press conference held friday, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, underscored the critical importance of both the Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) and Tejas MkII programs for the Indian Air Force's modernization and combat readiness.
He emphasized the need to maintain the timelines of both projects to avoid any detrimental impact on the IAF's operational capabilities.
While expressing the IAF's commitment to the indigenous Tejas MkII, slated to begin production by 2028, the Air Chief Marshal highlighted the equally vital role of the MRFA program.
This initiative aims to procure 114 multi-role fighter jets from international manufacturers to bridge capability gaps and complement the Tejas MkII.
"The Multi Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) is needed along with the Tejas MkII program," stated Air Chief Marshal Singh. "If the Tejas MkII enters production in 2028 and the MRFA deal is signed simultaneously, I think we are okay. We are not too badly off. But if these timelines are pushed, then we need to look out."
The MRFA project is crucial for replacing the IAF's aging fleet of MiG-21, MiG-27, and Jaguar aircraft, which are nearing the end of their service life. The acquisition of these advanced multi-role fighters will significantly enhance the IAF's air superiority, strike capabilities, and overall operational effectiveness.
The Tejas MkII, an upgraded version of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), represents a major step forward in India's indigenous fighter jet development. With enhanced features such as increased payload capacity, advanced avionics, and extended range, the Tejas MkII is poised to play a key role in modernizing the IAF's fighter fleet.
The IAF plans to induct at least 120 Tejas MkII aircraft, which, alongside the 114 MRFA jets, will form a significant portion of its future combat fleet. These aircraft are expected to gradually replace the aging MiG-21, MiG-27, and Jaguar fighters, and eventually even the MiG-29 and Mirage-2000H jets, which currently comprise over 200 aircraft in the IAF's inventory.
This dual-pronged approach of acquiring advanced fighters through both international procurement (MRFA) and indigenous development (Tejas MkII) reflects the IAF's commitment to maintaining a technologically superior and operationally ready combat force in the face of evolving security challenges.
