BS EDIT: Rafale-M Cleared. What About the IAF?

By Business StandardPublished On Apr 14, 2025

Navy to get 26 Rafale-M jets

A ₹64,000 crore deal has been cleared for carrier-based fighters. Delivery in 3–5 years

IAF needs urgent attention

Squadron strength is down to 31 vs a target of 42. Older jets are ageing out fast

Tejas can’t fill the gap

Production delays and limited capability have hampered the LCA’s role in IAF plans

Regional threats are rising

China and Pakistan are advancing. The IAF must be ready for a two-front challenge

New fighter tender must move

114 jets are planned. The focus: capability, cost, speed, and indigenisation

Plan for the next decade

The Rafale-M is progress—but IAF modernisation needs urgency and strategic clarity