IAF chief warns prolonged Tejas jet delays could weaken India's air capabilities

At the IAF’s annual news conference, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh warned that the domestic Tejas Mk-1A fighter programme is running roughly two years late, a delay he said will "hurt" the force. The deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd called for 83 aircraft to be delivered by March 2024, yet none have been handed over, with production slowed by late deliveries of GE Aerospace’s F404 (IN20) engines and unfinished weapons integration and radar upgrades.

Singh emphasized that the IAF must sustain a squadron strength of 36-40, requiring the induction of about two squadrons annually, and pointed to the upcoming Mk-2 prototype and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (Amca) as future options. He did not confirm any purchase of foreign fifth-generation jets such as the Su-57 or F-35, although the latter took part in the Tarang Shakti exercise in Rajasthan. Singh also highlighted a new aero-engine co-production project to boost self-reliance, expressed concern over China’s fifth-generation fleet and Pakistan’s reported acquisitions, but said these do not alter the regional balance of power. Finally, he noted the IAF’s support for the integrated theatre commands proposal and its willingness to revisit it after Operation Sindoor.