IAF Pushes for 114 New Multirole Fighters Amid Rising Threats and a Potetial Two-Front War Scenario

New Delhi, India - The Indian Air Force (IAF) is gearing up for a massive fighter jet procurement, with a high-level committee giving the green light for the induction of 114 multirole fighter aircraft (MRFA) through a fast-tracked global tender. The move, aimed at bolstering combat strength, comes as the IAF stares at the retirement of 10 squadrons by 2037, including the iconic Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29 jets.

The committee, headed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, submitted its report to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, reinforcing the urgent need for new jets to keep up with India’s security requirements. The IAF wants these aircraft to start arriving in the next four to five years, ensuring squadron strength doesn't plummet further as older jets are phased out.

IAF’s Numbers Game: 60 Squadrons by 2047?

The IAF’s long-term goal is 60 fighter squadrons by 2047, a benchmark needed to counter a two-front war scenario involving China and Pakistan. But with squadron strength steadily dipping, that goal seems ambitious—unless procurement moves faster than it historically has.

To fill the gap, the IAF is relying on a mix of foreign fighters and indigenous aircraft like the LCA Tejas Mark 1A and Mark 2, which are still in various stages of development and induction. While 36 Rafale jets have already boosted India’s air superiority, the force still needs additional squadrons to maintain an edge.

The MRFA Race: Who’s in the Running?

The upcoming MRFA tender is set to be a high-stakes battle among some of the world’s most advanced fighter jets. The lineup is likely to include:

• Dassault Rafale (France) – Already operational with the IAF, the twin-engine jet could have an edge if India opts for continuity.

• Saab Gripen (Sweden) – A lightweight, single-engine fighter, known for its cost-effectiveness and versatility.

• Eurofighter Typhoon (European consortium) – Previously evaluated under the MMRCA contest, this jet offers cutting-edge avionics.

• MiG-35 (Russia) – An advanced version of the MiG-29, though Russia’s ability to fulfil orders amid its Ukraine war commitments remains questionable.

• F-16 (Lockheed Martin, USA) – Offered as the F-21 to India, it’s a combat-proven aircraft but faces tough competition.

• F-15EX Strike Eagle (Boeing, USA) – The only new entrant in this race, this heavyweight air superiority fighter could be a game-changer.

Fast-Tracking the Process: No Time for Red Tape

Given past delays in aircraft procurements, the IAF is pushing for a quick selection process. Instead of full-fledged trials, only limited tests may be conducted to validate the performance of these jets. This would cut down the bureaucratic red tape and help speed up delivery timelines.

While the IAF is eager to induct these jets, there are roadblocks that could cause delays. Global supply chain disruptions, particularly in the U.S. due to commitments in Ukraine and Israel, could slow down deliveries. The defence budget will also play a role—procuring 114 fighters could cost upwards of $15-20 billion, making this one of the largest-ever defence deals in India’s history.

With summer 2025 shaping up to be a crucial period for India’s fighter jet roadmap, all eyes will be on how fast this procurement moves. As older jets retire and new threats emerge, the IAF’s modernization drive will define India’s air dominance for the next two decades.