A high-level committee, led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, has submitted a detailed report to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, outlining a plan to strengthen the Indian Air Force (IAF). Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh recently handed over the report from the empowered committee on IAF capability enhancement to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. 

"It was chaired by the defence secretary with the vice-chief of air staff, secretary (defence production), secretary (Department of Defence R and D) and chairman DRDO, DG acquisition as members and deputy chief of air staff as member secretary," read the statement. The IAF chief recently pointed out a major shortage of fighter jets in the air force, stressing that 40 new jets need to be added every year to stay battle-ready. The report presents a clear plan to upgrade the IAF with better technology, improved force management, and a focus on making defence equipment within the country. The key plans include adding more fighter squadrons, acquiring advanced jets like Rafale and TEJAS, and working with private companies to develop next-generation aircraft. The committee also highlights the need for better coordination between Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and private companies to boost local production and reduce reliance on foreign imports. The Defence Minister has instructed a quick implementation of these recommendations to strengthen India's air defence and ensure national security. 

The report stresses the need for the aerospace sector to become more self-reliant by encouraging greater involvement from private companies. It also highlights the importance of modernising fighter jet fleets and improving defence infrastructure, such as airbases and emergency landing strips. This is especially crucial now, as the Indian Air Force is facing major operational challenges, including a shortage of fighter squadrons—currently at 30 instead of the approved 42.5. To address these gaps, the committee has recommended short-, medium-, and long-term solutions. Increasing the number of fighter squadrons, adding more force multipliers such as mid-air refuelers and airborne early-warning systems, and improving air defense capabilities with cutting-edge missiles are important areas of attention. The IAF is also looking into ways to increase fighter jet production, with the goal of introducing 35 to 40 aircraft a year to make up for the current deficit. 

The importance of these actions has been emphasised by Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, who has pointed out that the IAF needs to quickly induct new aircraft in order to retain combat readiness. The Air Force is exploring partnerships with foreign aircraft manufacturers to set up production lines in India. This would reduce dependence on Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for fighter jet manufacturing. This plan aims to strengthen India's military while promoting self-reliance. It is especially important as the country faces security challenges from its neighbours and works on developing its own fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

The Defence Ministry has ordered that the committee's recommendations be carried out within a set timeframe, highlighting the need for prompt action to close the IAF's capability gaps. The IAF intends to purchase 97 additional TEJAS MK-1A fighters at an approximate cost of ₹67,000 crore in addition to resolving existing delays. As part of the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" plan, the 4.5-generation fighter jet TEJAS MK-1A is intended to be a vital component of the IAF's fleet modernisation.

Over the next ten years, the Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to have around 350 TEJAS fighter jets, including the MK-1, MK-1A, and the advanced MK-2 versions. It is important that these jets are delivered on time to keep the IAF strong, especially as it faces challenges from neighbouring countries.