India moves to address fighter jet shortfalls amid rising regional pressures
The IAF faces growing capability gaps as India pushes forward on AMCA, LCA, and MRFA programmes. (Photo: author)
Delays, dwindling squadrons and global competition spur belated momentum in airpower procurement.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is increasingly anxious over its shrinking combat strength, with its fleet now comprising fewer than 30 squadrons, well below the sanctioned 42.
With eight more squadrons set to retire over the next decade, and threats rising from across the region – including Pakistan’s plan to acquire up to 40 J-35A fighters from China – India’s traditionally slow-moving defence bureaucracy is finally being pushed to act.
A long-awaited report focused on collaboration with private industry on the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is set to be released this month. The programme, with a budget allocation of
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![The 2020s: a decade of UAV spending growth]()
The 2020s: a decade of UAV spending growth
Total annual drone spending has increased nearly sixfold since the start of the decade, from $2.9 billion in 2020 to $16.3 billion in 2028, with Europe leading the rise.
-
![July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough]()
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
![July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop]()
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
![FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne]()
FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
-
![Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)]()
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
