Tejas delays highlight critical gaps in India’s Air Force readiness
New Delhi: Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief AP Singh has voiced concerns over significant delays in the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program, noting that the first batch of 40 aircraft ordered in 2009-2010 has yet to be fully delivered.
According to Kashmir Media Service, speaking at the 21st Subroto Mukerjee Seminar, Singh emphasized the need for ramping up production, citing China’s rapid air force modernization and heavy investments in its air fleet.
Singh’s remarks came amid reports of China testing mysterious sixth-generation stealth jets, while Pakistan is reportedly set to acquire fifth-generation stealth fighters from China within two years.
AP Singh highlighted that the first Tejas jet flew in 2001, with its induction beginning 15 years later, in 2016. “….Today, we are in 2024. I do not have the first 40 aircraft also, so this is the production capability,” the IAF chief reportedly said, emphasising that “technology delayed is technology denied”.
The Tejas is an indigenously developed fourth-generation fighter. Despite over three decades of development, production delays persist, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) struggling to meet IAF demands.
Reportedly, the delays are exacerbating India’s fighter squadron shortage. The IAF requires 42 squadrons for air superiority but currently operates only 30, increasingly relying on foreign jets like the French Rafale. These delays, critics argue, are not only technical but also a serious threat to India’s security, especially as China advances with cutting-edge air technology.
