Delay in Tejas Jet Deliveries Hurting IAF - Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh

Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has expressed concern over delays in the delivery of Tejas fighter jets at a time when the number of fighter squadrons in the Indian Air Force is declining. He stressed the need to accelerate the induction of Tejas aircraft as air power assumes greater importance in national security. The IAF would need at least 36–40 fighter jets every year in the coming years, he said. Induction of indigenous Tejas Mk-1A aircraft and Rafale jets under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft programme could help address the shortage of fighter squadrons.

Responding to questions about delays in aircraft deliveries by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Air Chief said the situation was causing losses to the IAF. Against the authorised strength of 42 fighter squadrons, the force currently has 29, he said, adding that the IAF is awaiting the Tejas Mk-1A, Tejas Mk-2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Reports of China and Pakistan cooperating on fifth-generation fighter aircraft are a matter of concern, he said, while asserting that the IAF has the capability to deal with any threat. He also stressed the need to build an AI-enabled force to prepare for future warfare.