The Indian Government has established a high-level committee under Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh to evaluate the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) capability development amid rising regional threats. The committee’s focus includes addressing gaps in fighter aircraft and missile systems, emphasizing indigenous design and development. With China’s growing air power and Pakistan’s strengthened air force, this initiative reflects the urgent need to modernize the IAF’s operational capabilities. The committee is expected to submit its report within two to three months.
Key Details of the Committee Formation
Purpose of the Committee
- Strategic Assessment: Evaluate the IAF’s current needs and long-term capability development.
- Focus Areas:
- Fighter aircraft shortages.
- Missile system gaps.
- Upgrades to existing platforms.
Members of the Committee
The committee includes senior officials from the Defence Ministry, DRDO, and IAF:
- Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh: Head of the committee.
- Sanjeev Kumar: Secretary, Defence Production.
- Dr. Samir V Kamat: DRDO Chief.
- Air Marshal T Singh: Deputy Chief of Air Staff and member secretary.
Key Issues Under Review
Fighter Aircraft Shortages
- The IAF has inducted 36 Rafale aircraft, but the acquisition of 110+ 4.5-generation fighters remains pending.
- The committee will explore solutions, including the possibility of indigenous production to meet these needs.
Weaponry Gaps
- Urgent attention is required for the IAF’s air-to-air and air-to-ground missile systems to counter China’s advanced weaponry.
- Modernization of these systems will be a priority.
Indigenous Development Plans
- LCA Mark 1A: Delayed due to supply chain issues, highlighting the need for streamlined indigenous production.
- Future plans include building 114 fighter aircraft in India through collaborations with foreign manufacturers, aligning with the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
Regional Threats and Strategic Importance
Rising Regional Threats
- China’s Expanding Air Power: Increased military capability in the region, posing a direct challenge to India’s defense preparedness.
- China-Pakistan Cooperation: Strengthened military ties and potential collaboration with Bangladesh intensify the need for India to enhance its air defense capabilities.
Strategic Importance of the Report
- The committee’s recommendations will address critical gaps in the IAF’s operational readiness.
- Enhancements in fighter aircraft and missile capabilities will prepare the IAF to counter future threats effectively.
Summary of Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in News | High-level committee formed to assess IAF’s capability development. |
| Purpose | Address fighter aircraft shortages, missile gaps, and modernization plans. |
| Committee Members | Rajesh Kumar Singh (Defence Secretary), Sanjeev Kumar, Dr. Samir V Kamat, Air Marshal T Singh. |
| IAF Challenges | Shortage of fighter aircraft (36 Rafale inducted, 110+ pending), gaps in missile systems. |
| Regional Threats | China’s growing air power, Pakistan’s strengthened air force, potential China-Bangladesh cooperation. |
| Indigenous Development | LCA Mark 1A delays, plans for 114 fighters to be built in India via foreign collaboration. |
| Strategic Importance | The committee’s report will help address operational gaps and prepare for future challenges. |
FAQs About the IAF Capability Development Committee
1. Why was the committee formed?
The committee was established to evaluate the IAF’s current needs and future capability development, focusing on fighter aircraft shortages and missile gaps.
2. Who are the key members of the committee?
The committee is headed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and includes officials from the Defence Ministry, DRDO, and IAF, such as Dr. Samir V Kamat and Air Marshal T Singh.
3. What are the key issues under review?
The committee will address fighter aircraft shortages, missile system modernization, and delays in indigenous projects like the LCA Mark 1A.
4. How does this align with the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative?
The committee emphasizes indigenous design, development, and acquisition, reducing reliance on foreign technologies and fostering domestic defense manufacturing.
5. Why is this initiative significant?
With rising regional threats from China and Pakistan, the committee’s recommendations will help enhance the IAF’s operational readiness and ensure national security.
The formation of this high-level committee marks a critical step in strengthening the Indian Air Force’s capabilities amid rising regional threats. By addressing gaps in fighter aircraft, missile systems, and indigenous development, the committee aligns with India’s vision for self-reliance and modernization under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” campaign. The forthcoming report will play a pivotal role in preparing the IAF to tackle future challenges and maintain regional stability.
