MMRCA 2.0: India's Next Fighter Jet – News and Discussion

[Raj Basu]

Greetings aviation enthusiasts, defence analysts, and concerned citizens!

India's quest for its next-generation multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA 2.0) is heating up. This massive acquisition program will reshape our Air Force's capabilities and influence the global fighter jet market.

Whether you're a seasoned expert or just curious about the future of military aviation, your voice matters. Let's dive into the details, analyze the contenders, and discuss the strategic implications of MMRCA 2.0.

Key Discussion Points​

• The Contenders: Who's in the race? What are the strengths and weaknesses of the F/A-18 Super Hornet, Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, and other potential candidates?
• Strategic Considerations: How will this acquisition impact India's defence posture, regional relationships, and industrial capabilities?
• Technological Advancements: What cutting-edge technologies are these jets bringing to the table (e.g., stealth, supercruise, advanced avionics)?
• Economic Factors: What are the financial implications of this program for India? Are there opportunities for technology transfer and domestic production?
• Your Opinion: Which fighter jet do you think would best serve India's needs? What are your hopes and concerns for MMRCA 2.0?

Let's Make This a Collaborative Effort!​

Feel free to share news articles, expert opinions, and your own insights. The more perspectives we gather, the richer our understanding of MMRCA 2.0 will be.

Let the discussions begin!

 

[team]

To reduce foreign dependency, IAF is looking into indigenous weapons for MRFA jets​

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is committed to lowering its dependency on foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for weaponry supplies. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has made a noteworthy decision to procure air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons developed domestically for the fighter aircraft that will be chosen through the Medium Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) procurement process.

The objective of the MRFA tender is to acquire 114 homegrown fighter aircraft produced in India. The IAF's decision to prioritise indigenous weapons for these aircraft has been communicated to the six original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that responded to the request for information (RFI) issued in April 2019.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has stated that it wants the aircraft to be mostly armed with locally manufactured or Indian-designed weapons, however it hasn't completely ruled out the option of using certain foreign weapons. Reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and bolstering the Indian defence sector are the driving forces behind this decision.

For foreign OEMs, the integration of indigenous weapons into the MRFA programme presents a challenge. Weapons packages frequently contribute for 30-40% of total acquisition costs, and foreign OEMs may be hesitant to sell aircraft without their selected weapon systems.

Moreover, the integration procedure may be further complicated by the IAF's stringent demand for the source code of the primary radar and mission computer. Aircraft manufacturers usually view this information as confidential, thus they might be reluctant to give it to the Indian side.

Despite these obstacles, the IAF's decision to prioritise indigenous weaponry is a strong move towards defence self-sufficiency. It conveys the IAF's dedication to fostering the expansion of the Indian defence sector and lessening its vulnerability to supply chain interruptions.

The success of the MRFA programme will be determined by the IAF's and the Indian defence industry's capacity to collaborate in order to incorporate indigenous weapons into foreign-designed fighter jets.

In the future, India may be able to export a significant amount of defensive equipment if this partnership is effective.

 

[PRO]

Saab Eyes Indian Skies: Gripen-E Awaits Election Outcome for MRFA Bid​

Swedish aerospace giant Saab is actively promoting its Gripen-E fighter jet for India’s upcoming Medium Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, offering a “Make in India” deal with complete technology transfer. However, any concrete developments on the program will have to wait until after the national elections scheduled for late spring.

Saab hopes that the Indian government will soon issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the 114-jet MRFA program, a crucial initiative to modernize the Indian Air Force (IAF). The company is confident that the Gripen-E, with its advanced capabilities and potential for local production, aligns well with India’s strategic objectives.

“Gripen-E is a perfect fit for India’s defense needs,” says a Saab spokesperson. “It offers the latest technology, competitive pricing, and a comprehensive Make in India package.”

Saab’s “Make in India” proposal reportedly involves establishing a local production line and transferring critical technologies to Indian partners. This approach aligns with the Indian government’s emphasis on boosting domestic defense manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign imports.

However, the timing of the MRFA program coincides with India’s upcoming national elections, which typically see a slowdown in major defense decisions. As a result, any concrete progress on the MRFA tender, including the issuance of the RFP or selection of a winner, is likely to be delayed until after the new government takes office.

Several other international players, including Dassault Aviation (Rafale), Boeing (F-15EX), and Lockheed Martin (F-21), are also expected to vie for the MRFA program. The final decision will depend on a range of factors, including technical capabilities, pricing, and the effectiveness of each proposed “Make in India” plan.

 

[Pink Panther]

SAAB is just like HAL dreaming, only difference is SAAB has a world class product flown by few countries while HAL’s product is still on pictures hanging in HAL walls.

 

[Satya Dev]

HAL TejasMk2 will be better than Gripen-E.

 

[charminar_waale_ismail_bhai]

HAL TejasMk2 will be better than Gripen-E.

If it gets to fly i.e.
Right now Tejas Mk2 is a computer aided render which HAL sprrads around to all news portals.

 

[Frank]

Have some shame...

Tejas mk2 is better Than gripen

 

[Frank]

If it gets to fly i.e.
Right now Tejas Mk2 is a computer aided render which HAL sprrads around to all news portals.

Even than don't encourage phoren maal dalllas

 

[desigandu]

Zero chance for Gripen-E...Not that it is not capable but assuming HAL gets Tejas Mk2 organized before 2030, Gripen-E is the same capability, may be cheaper also...MRFA (114 Rafales + 26 Rafales Ms) will be expensive (very) but capability wise is clearly higher...We need GOI/DRDO/HAL to really accelerate Tejas-Mk2, and start on AMCA and TEDBF, while doing a G2G with France (post election) on Rafales (36 Flyin condition and the rest assembled in India with TOT, IP, Upgrade, MRO and Exports rights if possible)...Speedy decisions will serve our national security needs better.

 

[das bab]

Any how Saab is loosing bussiness better merge their know how with tejas mk2.

 

[Ajath]

IAF chances of going for J 39 is very negligible.

 

[Man-ju]

I am not a subject matter in terms of radar and other electronic sensors but given that Pakistan operates a huge fleet of Saab Erieye AEWs, I don't think it would be beneficial to have defence ties with Saab. Some defence experts are claiming that Tejas MK2 is better than Gripen E, even though they are of comparable class but how can you compare a fighter that is in service with a fighter that still on paper?

 

[beencensured]

Some defence experts are claiming that Tejas MK2 is better than Gripen E, even though they are of comparable class but how can you compare a fighter that is in service with a fighter that still on paper?

But Tejas mk1a kicks Grippen c/d and so It should be better with lower RCS Tejas mk2.

 

[Baiju Bhaskaran]

Gripen and Tejas MK2 are almost the same. Why not merge both and make Gripen India specific and operating with only our weapons like Brahmos,Astra,Rudram etc. with order of almost 250 aircrafts ( MRFA+ Tejas MK2). The development funds of Tejas MK2 can be shifted and the development work on AMCA can start immediately.

 

[Pad UwU]

HAL TejasMk2 will be better than Gripen-E.

Only if HAL can produce a flying Tejas mkii in real world 😹😹😹

 

[Pad UwU]

IMHO why should we compare the Gripen e/f to Tejas mkia when we can merge the Tejas mkii to Gripen e/f or both make a future aircraft instead 😺

 

[Jaydeep Gupta]

India Demands Full Domestic Manufacturing for MRFA Fighter Jet Program​

In a move signalling a bold shift in its defense acquisition strategy, India's government has seeking a new policy mandating complete fighter jet production within the country for its upcoming Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program. This decision signifies a significant departure from previous 'Make in India' initiatives that focused on partial domestic production.

Under this revised policy, any company bidding for the lucrative MRFA contract, estimated at $23 billion, must be willing to establish a manufacturing facility in India capable of producing the entire aircraft. Additionally, the government seeks comprehensive technology transfer and a joint venture with a local partner for full-scale production.

This move is seen as a clear step towards India's goal of achieving 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliance) in defense. While the policy change may delay the much-needed acquisition of fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, it is aimed at bolstering the domestic aerospace industry and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.

Several leading aircraft manufacturers, including Dassault, Boeing, SAAB, Lockheed Martin, and others, are reportedly vying for the MRFA contract. However, the new policy raises the stakes for these companies, forcing them to re-evaluate their bids and propose a comprehensive plan for complete aircraft production in India.

Industry analysts expect a new global tender incorporating these stringent requirements to be issued soon. However, the policy shift is also anticipated to further delay the MRFA acquisition process, given the complexity of setting up full-fledged manufacturing and technology transfer.

The Indian Air Force currently operates with 31 fighter jet squadrons, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42. While the new policy aims to build long-term capabilities, it also underscores the immediate need for the Air Force to bridge the gap in its fighter fleet.

The success of this ambitious policy change will hinge on effective collaboration between the government, foreign vendors, and domestic partners. The challenges ahead are considerable, but if successful, the MRFA program could significantly boost India's domestic aerospace industry and propel it towards greater self-reliance in defense.

 

[sanket]

i always said every Nut/bolt ready to manufacture company will win MRFA ,But after GE-404 Engine delay drama India should b careful & should not over depend on US.India think two front war if supply chain is not good how to fought war.Not only Fighter jet under MRFA should b manufacture in India But opportunity exist in Exporting this jets to Freindly nation too. India needs Complete Eco-system of Fighter jet & Engine used in that Jet to b manufactured in India.Even some weapons too should b manufactured under License.

In Article F-15Ex & Su-35 is missing whether or not win is next Thing But they 2 are also contenders of MRFA .

 

[NSR]

Only LM F-21 and Boeing F/A-18 and F-15EX was willing to manufacture all of their fighters in India with an Indian partner.
Rostec and HAL tie-up was a disaster for India.

Do not hold your breath about MRFA at all.

Go full steam ahead with Tejas IA productions and Tejas Mk2 developments.
Bring in private players to put competition on HAL or else it will keep going with its lackadaisical attitudes.

No vision or planning and execution on parts of IAF, MoD, GoI, and above all HAL.

 

[Raj]

IAF don't have concrete plan. Blindly purchased 272 su 30mki's, to upgrade su 30mki's will cost same as new one. even today they don't have proper 5th gen fighter plan. Best way to fill the gap is to purchase another 36 rafales. All other 4th gen jet testing is waste of time.

 

[Serious Golfer]

Only LM F-21 and Boeing F/A-18 and F-15EX was willing to manufacture all of their fighters in India with an Indian partner.
Rostec and HAL tie-up was a disaster for India.

Do not hold your breath about MRFA at all.

Go full steam ahead with Tejas IA productions and Tejas Mk2 developments.
Bring in private players to put competition on HAL or else it will keep going with its lackadaisical attitudes.

No vision or planning and execution on parts of IAF, MoD, GoI, and above all HAL.

I think Gripen may also be able to comply - given that the F414 will be made in India.

 

[R. Singh]

If we need single engine fighter we should go for F-36 (a -5th gen F-16) and later on extend order to make 5th gen light fighter with Lockheed Martin ! If we select twin engine fighter then go for Rafale F4/F-5 with MUMT !

 

[Paul]

One thing is for sure, MRFA deal is not going to happen in the near future.

 

[sanket]

Only LM F-21 and Boeing F/A-18 and F-15EX was willing to manufacture all of their fighters in India with an Indian partner.
Rostec and HAL tie-up was a disaster for India.

Do not hold your breath about MRFA at all.

Go full steam ahead with Tejas IA productions and Tejas Mk2 developments.
Bring in private players to put competition on HAL or else it will keep going with its lackadaisical attitudes.

No vision or planning and execution on parts of IAF, MoD, GoI, and above all HAL.

September 2024 deadline will decide the Reliability of US ,dont trust US already 220 Tejas are dependent on US engine,another 108 Tejas MK2 Followed by TEDBF 100 Jets & 40 AMCA MK1 . All this plus add to that 114 from MRFA Almost 600 Fighter jet have to depend on US . its over dependency i again think India should go with European Fighter jet Either Rafale or Eurofighter But Rafale being Single Nation & already finding place in IN & Airforce it is ultimate choice question is will Dassault ready to manufacture in India & atleast 60 to 65% ToT.& Meteor system ToT under License production to India.

 

[Anant]

More delays and no AoN? Someone in the MoD needs to receive a knock on their heads.

 

[Anant]

I think Gripen may also be able to comply - given that the F414 will be made in India.

Um, the Gripen is powered by a F404 derivative.

 

[Sudha]

IAF don't have concrete plan. Blindly purchased 272 su 30mki's, to upgrade su 30mki's will cost same as new one. even today they don't have proper 5th gen fighter plan. Best way to fill the gap is to purchase another 36 rafales. All other 4th gen jet testing is waste of time.

IAF is to blame for SU30MKI? It was a decision of the government of those times & other foreign OEMs weren't falling one over the other to produce their aircrafts in Bharat. An irrelevant comment.

 

[GMR]

So MRFA is not happening any sooner as nobody will give away 100% rights on a platter for only 126 planes.... with Tejas prodn. struck, going down to 29/30 squardens after retirement of MIGs, we r not able to cross the tendering phase yet.. wow.. this project will find its place in Guinness world records

 

[Sudha]

September 2024 deadline will decide the Reliability of US ,dont trust US already 220 Tejas are dependent on US engine,another 108 Tejas MK2 Followed by TEDBF 100 Jets & 40 AMCA MK1 . All this plus add to that 114 from MRFA Almost 600 Fighter jet have to depend on US . its over dependency i again think India should go with European Fighter jet Either Rafale or Eurofighter But Rafale being Single Nation & already finding place in IN & Airforce it is ultimate choice question is will Dassault ready to manufacture in India & atleast 60 to 65% ToT.& Meteor system ToT under License production to India.

Everyone knew that US was very unreliable. Why did HAL took a decision to use F404 engines even when they knew production of which was closing down? A pure failure on the part of HAL management. HAL's management is more responsible for this fiasco.

 

[MANIVANNAN N]

Good idea. Execution and overseeing tough. Co require further orders also. Gurantee needed.