ISLAMABAD: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is adopting a pragmatic dual-trackapproach in modernising its fighter fleet, treating the acquisition ofadditional Dassault Rafale jets and Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighters ascomplementary rather than competing programs. This strategy aims toimmediately bolster depleting squadron strength while bridging the criticalgap in fifth-generation stealth capabilities until the indigenous AdvancedMedium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) enters service around the mid-2030s. Recentdevelopments highlight the urgency, as the IAF grapples with a fightershortfall amid regional security pressures.
The primary driver behind the proposed procurement of 114 additional Rafaleaircraft is the severe erosion of the IAF’s combat squadrons. As of late2025, the force operates only around 29-31 squadrons against a sanctionedstrength of 42, a level not seen in decades following the retirement ofageing MiG-21 aircraft. This depletion stems from delayed indigenousprograms and retirements of legacy platforms, creating vulnerabilities in atwo-front scenario. The Rafale, already proven in IAF service with 36 unitsinducted, offers a reliable multi-role solution with advanced avionics,weapon integration, and interoperability.
Experts emphasize that the Rafale deal under the Multi-Role FighterAircraft (MRFA) program is not positioned as an alternative to stealthplatforms but as an urgent measure to restore numerical strength.Negotiations for the approximately ₹3.25 lakh crore deal, potentiallyIndia’s largest defence acquisition, include 12-18 fly-away jets and therest manufactured domestically with over 30 per cent indigenous content.Existing infrastructure, logistics, and training ecosystems for Rafalecould accelerate operationalisation by 3-4 years, providing quick relief tothe strained fleet.
Parallel to this, the IAF is exploring the induction of 2-3 squadrons(36-54 aircraft) of the Russian Sukhoi Su-57 to address the stealthdeficiency. This fifth-generation fighter, marketed as the Su-57E exportvariant, is viewed as a temporary bridge until the AMCA’s first squadronbecomes operational. The AMCA program, led by the Aeronautical DevelopmentAgency and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, targets prototype rollout by late2026 or early 2027, first flight around 2028, and serial productionstarting by 2035, with full induction in subsequent years.
The rationale for pursuing the Su-57 lies in the evolving regional threatlandscape, particularly advancements in Chinese stealth fighters like theJ-20 and potential exports of J-35 variants. Without an interim stealthplatform, the IAF risks a capability gap in contested airspace for the nextdecade. Russian offers include technology transfer possibilities, aligningwith India’s diversification strategy amid offers from other nations likethe US F-35.
If both procurements proceed, the IAF’s future fleet composition couldfeature approximately 150 Rafale jets (including existing and newacquisitions), around 180 Tejas Mk1A variants for indigenous core strength,and 36-54 Su-57 units for stealth roles. This mix would enhance multi-roleflexibility, technological diversity, and operational readiness againstnumerical and qualitative challenges from adversaries.
The dual strategy reflects a balanced hedging approach, leveraging provenplatforms like Rafale for immediate needs while incorporating stealthtechnology to counter emerging threats. It also supports India’s push forself-reliance, as domestic production elements in both deals could boostlocal industry participation. However, challenges remain, includingbudgetary constraints, integration complexities, and geopoliticalconsiderations in sourcing from multiple suppliers.
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This multifaceted modernisation effort underscores the IAF’s determinationto maintain air superiority despite delays in homegrown programs. Theoutcome of ongoing negotiations with France and Russia could significantlyreshape India’s aerial defence posture in the coming decade.
Source: https://www.eurasiantimes.com/india-france-36b-rafale-jet-deal
Tags: Indian Air Force, Rafale, Su-57, AMCA, Tejas
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