IAF's Modernisation Drive: The Induction of Tejas Mk1A Amidst Depleting Squadron Strength
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Defence (Fighter aircraft of IAF - Tejas, MiG-21, Rafale; Defence Manufacturing - Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)); Science and Technology.
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3 (Security & S&T): Various Security forces and their mandate; Security challenges and their management; Indigenization of technology and developing new technology. The issue of IAF's depleting squadron strength and the role of indigenous platforms like Tejas is a core GS3 topic.
Key Highlights from the News
Key Points on India's Tejas Mk1A Induction
First Tejas Mk1A Delivery: India's first indigenously built Tejas Mk1A fighter jet is slated for delivery to the Indian Air Force (IAF) on October 17th.
Manufacturer: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is responsible for manufacturing this Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
Previous Delays: Earlier delays in the contract to deliver 83 aircraft were due to issues in receiving General Electric engines.
IAF Squadron Strength Concerns: The IAF's current squadron strength has critically dropped to 29, raising significant security concerns.
Addressing the Gap: To mitigate this, the IAF recently decommissioned two old MiG-21 squadrons. Plans are underway to procure 97 additional Tejas Mk1A aircraft, 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA), and manufacture "Made in India" Rafales.
"Aatmanirbhar Bharat" Milestone: The introduction of Tejas Mk1A marks a crucial step in India's "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative within the defense sector.
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