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In his first media briefing as Air Chief Marshal, A.P. Singh sets a vision for an entirely indigenous Indian Air Force by 2047, aiming to secure India's defence with domestically produced platforms and technology
In his first press briefing as Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh outlined an ambitious roadmap for the Indian Air Force (IAF), setting the stage for a fully indigenous force by 2047. Speaking ahead of the 92nd Air Force Day celebrations, Singh emphasized the IAF's goal of having its entire inventory developed, produced, and maintained domestically by the time India celebrates its 100th year of independence.
Singh highlighted the strategic importance of self-reliance in defence, particularly in light of the shifting geopolitical landscape. "By 2047, we aim for the Indian Air Force to have an inventory entirely developed and produced within India," Singh declared, underscoring that indigenous capability is critical to securing India's defence interests. He further stressed that future conflicts are increasingly shifting towards non-kinetic and unconventional domains, requiring advanced technologies that must be developed and produced domestically.
A capital expenditure of ₹56,000 crore has been allocated toward strengthening the IAF's capabilities, focusing on upgrading equipment, expanding indigenous production, and improving operational readiness.
As part of this vision for modernisation, Chief of the Air Staff shared that a capital expenditure of ₹56,000 crore has been allocated toward strengthening the force's capabilities. This funding will play a crucial role in upgrading equipment, expanding indigenous production, and improving operational readiness across the IAF's fleet.
India's burgeoning military-industrial base, driven by public-private sector collaboration, was central to Singh's message. He reiterated that reliance on foreign platforms and technologies is no longer viable for long-term security. "To ensure future operational readiness, we must expand indigenous production capabilities," Singh said, calling for increased investment in domestic defence manufacturing.
The Chief emphasized the critical role of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in ensuring the timely production of aircraft to maintain the strength of IAF squadrons. "It is a known fact that Tejas has been delayed; there is no doubt about it. And there is also a promise that the production rate will be at least 24 aircraft per year. If that promise is kept, I think the delays can be caught up with."
He explained that to prevent a dip in aircraft strength, it is essential that new aircraft are inducted as older aircraft retire, ensuring the number of squadrons remains above 30. HAL has established a third production line in Nasik, although it has yet to produce any aircraft.
On next-generation platforms, Singh provided a detailed timeline for the Tejas Mark 2 and AMCA. The Tejas Mark 2 is expected to take its first flight by October 2025, with induction planned for 2028. Singh emphasized that adhering to these timelines is crucial, particularly given the IAF's immediate need for a multirole fighter aircraft (MRFA). The AMCA, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, represents a transformative step for the IAF. Singh noted that while the programme is in its early stages, it remains a cornerstone of the IAF's future fleet. He urged all stakeholders to ensure that AMCA's development and production proceed in parallel, avoiding delays that have hampered earlier indigenous efforts.
The Tejas Mark 2 is expected to take its first flight by October 2025, with induction planned for 2028, and the AMCA, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, represents a transformative step for the IAF's future fleet.
In addition to modernisation, Singh highlighted the IAF's focus on comprehensive training to maintain combat readiness. The force has integrated near-realistic war-like training scenarios to prepare for both conventional and non-conventional threats. "How you train is how you fight," Singh remarked, reflecting confidence in the IAF's readiness to meet future challenges.
He noted that the IAF's radar systems operate continuously, and aircraft remain on standby, ready to respond to threats. Additionally, surface-to-air guided weapon systems are deployed across the country to defend Indian airspace. Singh candidly admitted that China is ahead of India in technology and production rates but added confidently, "As far as the people behind the machines are concerned, we are way ahead."
Apart from the Vayu Shakti and Gagan Shakti exercises, Singh emphasized the IAF's active participation in international joint exercises, which facilitate the exchange of operational knowledge and experience with global counterparts. "On average, we have been taking part in four to six foreign exercises where our forces go, participate, and return," Singh noted. He elaborated on the value of these exchanges, stating, "There are a lot of ideas exchanged; you teach something to them, and you learn something from them." The recent Tarang Shakti exercise, involving 30 nations, marked the first large-scale air exercise hosted by India in 61 years, further enhancing the IAF's global standing. He also quoted the Defence Minister's remarks during the exercise - "The more we sweat in peace, the less we bleed in war," underscoring the IAF's emphasis on high-intensity, practical training across its ranks.
Over 200 Tejas Mark 1A aircraft have been ordered, with 83 already in the pipeline and an additional 97 expected, alongside the development of indigenous missile systems like the Astra Mark 2 and 3.
Singh highlighted the IAF's continued investment in indigenous weapons systems. Over 200 Tejas Mark 1A aircraft have been ordered, with 83 already in the pipeline and an additional 97 expected. Indigenous missile systems, such as the Astra Mark 2 and 3, are also under development, which Singh noted would significantly enhance India's air-to-air combat capabilities. Long-range surface-to-air missile systems, including the Akash Next-Generation system, will form a key component of India's air defence.
The IAF's focus is not only on indigenous procurement but also on the long-term maintenance and lifecycle support of these systems. Singh reaffirmed the goal of achieving self-reliance in both production and sustainment by 2047.
On the manpower front, Singh commended the Agniveer Vayu initiative, which has brought fresh, dynamic talent into the IAF. The first batch of Agniveer Vayu recruits has completed Stage 2 training, and Singh praised their performance and adaptability, noting that the initiative is poised to rejuvenate the force.
The Indian Air Force is working to become the Indian Air and Space Force (IASF), collaborating with ISRO to expand space-based assets, including the establishment of the College of Air Warfare as the Centre for Excellence for Space.
Additionally, the IAF's focus extends beyond air capabilities to include space-based assets. The Indian Air Force is working to become the Indian Air and Space Force (IASF). "The Programme SPS is ongoing; we are working with ISRO, and the results of the DefSpace Challenges have been announced. The work to increase space-based assets is also in progress. We have a requirement for training, and the College of Air Warfare (CAW) in Hyderabad has been established as the Centre for Excellence for Space", Singh announced advancements in India's space defence capabilities, aiming to ensure that the nation stays ahead in the space domain.
Looking ahead to the 92nd Air Force Day on October 8, Singh revealed that the IAF will showcase its modernised capabilities through an aerial display over Marina Beach in Chennai. The theme, Bharatiya Vayusena: Saksham, Sashakt aur Aatmanirbhar (Indian Air Force: Potent, Strong, and Self-reliant), aligns with the IAF's modernisation and self-reliance objectives. The event is expected to attract a record audience of over 20 lakh people, potentially setting a Limca World Record for the highest viewership of any military display.
Air Chief Marshal Singh's comprehensive vision for 2047 reflects a clear focus on indigenous production, advanced training, and technological innovation. While challenges remain, his roadmap signals a strong commitment to transforming the IAF into a fully self-reliant force, ready to secure India's skies for future generations.