Government Allocates ₹48,614 Crore for Advanced Aircraft and Aero Engines in Defence Budget, Enhancing IAF Capabilities Amidst Dwindling Squadrons

In a significant move to strengthen India's air defense, the government has allocated ₹48,614 crore in the 2025-26 defence budget specifically for the procurement and development of advanced aircraft and aero engines. This substantial investment underscores the nation's commitment to modernizing the Indian Air Force (IAF) amid concerns over its decreasing number of fighter squadrons.

Budget Overview

The total defence budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 stands at ₹6.81 lakh crore, marking a 9.5% increase from the previous year. Of this, ₹1.80 lakh crore is dedicated to capital outlay for modernization and procurement of new weapons. Notably, ₹48,614 crore is earmarked for aircraft and aero engines, while ₹24,390 crore is allocated for the naval fleet.

Addressing Squadron Depletion

The IAF's current fighter squadron strength has declined to 31, below the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons. This reduction is primarily due to the phasing out of aging aircraft like the MiG-21. To counter this decline, the IAF plans to induct nine additional squadrons by 2025-26, comprising:

• 36 Rafale jets
• 21 MiG-29s
• 18 Su-30MKIs
• 24 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk.1
• 83 LCA Tejas Mk.1A

Modernization and Indigenous Development

The budget allocation aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative, emphasizing domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Key projects supported by this funding include:

• LCA Tejas Mk.1A: An advanced version of the indigenous Tejas, featuring enhanced avionics, radar systems, and reduced maintenance requirements. The IAF has placed an order for 83 units, with deliveries expected to commence soon.

• Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA): A fifth-generation stealth fighter jet under development, intended to bolster the IAF's capabilities with cutting-edge technology.

• Jet Engine Development: Efforts are underway to develop indigenous jet engines in collaboration with international partners, aiming for self-reliance in critical engine technology.

Challenges Ahead

While the budgetary commitment is substantial, the IAF faces challenges such as:

• Procurement Delays: Historically, slow procurement processes have hindered timely modernization efforts.

• Integration Complexities: Ensuring new aircraft and systems integrate seamlessly with existing platforms is crucial for operational effectiveness.

• Cost Management: Balancing the budget while achieving modernization goals requires meticulous financial planning.

Strategic Vision

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary has outlined a vision focusing on modernization, operational effectiveness, and adaptability to evolving security challenges. A key objective is to achieve a squadron strength of 42 by 2035, enhancing the IAF's readiness and strategic capabilities.

The allocation of ₹48,614 crore for advanced aircraft and aero engines represents a pivotal step in strengthening India's air defense. By investing in both procurement and indigenous development, the government aims to enhance the IAF's capabilities, address the challenge of dwindling squadrons, and move towards self-reliance in defense technology.