The IAF’s Fighter Jet Modernization Dilemma

The IAF’s Fighter Jet Modernization Dilemma

Sub: Sci

Sec: Defence

Why in News

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) faces significant challenges in modernizing its fighter jet fleet amidst China’s rapid advancements in military aviation technology. Recently, China unveiled two stealth fighter jets and other high-tech platforms, underscoring the widening technological gap between the two nations.

China’s Advancements in Military Aviation:

• China unveiled two new stealth fighter jets, likely classified as sixth-generation fighters.
  • Large Jet: Delta-wing design with three engines, developed by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation.
  • Smaller Jet: Twin-engine design with swept wings, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation.
• Other technological breakthroughs include:
  • Supersonic civil jet prototype.
  • World’s fastest bullet train.
  • New amphibious naval ship and deep-sea exploration vessel.

India’s Ongoing Modernization Efforts:

• LCA Mk1A and Mk2 to form the bulk of the fleet.
• Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TED-BF) under development. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and DRDO working on indigenous platforms.
• Procurement of 12 additional Su-30MKIs to replace accident losses. Sukhoi upgrade program in the final stages of approval.
• Plans to produce 24 LCAs annually, scaling up to 30 units once engine supplies stabilize.

Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A:

• The LCA Tejas Mk1A is an upgraded version of the indigenous Tejas Mk1, designed to bolster the IAF’s operational capabilities.
• Key Features:
  • Advanced Avionics: Equipped with modern avionics for improved mission performance.
  • Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar: Incorporates AESA radar for enhanced target detection and tracking.
  • Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite: Features an integrated EW suite for superior self-protection.
  • Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Combat Capability: Enhanced for effective engagement in BVR scenarios.
  • Capable of carrying a payload of up to 4,000 kg.
  • Powered by the GE F404-GE-IN20 engine, providing reliable thrust and performance.

Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk2:

• The LCA Tejas Mk2 is an advanced iteration of the Tejas platform, featuring significant enhancements in capabilities and performance.
• Key Features:
  • Length of approximately 14.65 meters and wingspan of 8.5 meters.
  • Powered by the GE F414-INS6 engine, offering increased thrust.
  • Capable of speeds exceeding Mach 1.8 and operational altitudes over 55,000 feet.
  • Incorporates state-of-the-art avionics, sensors, and weapon systems.

General Electric (GE) F404 and F414 Engines:

• GE F404 Engine: Afterburning turbofan engine.
  • Provides static thrust ranging from 10,500 to 19,000 pounds.
  • Powers the LCA Tejas Mk1 and Mk1A variants.
• GE F414 Engine: Advanced afterburning turbofan engine.
  • Delivers thrust in the 22,000-pound class.
  • Selected to power the LCA Tejas Mk2 and other next-generation combat aircraft.

Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA):

• The MRFA program is an initiative by the Indian government to procure 114 multi-role fighter aircraft for the IAF. This program aims to address the depleting strength of the IAF’s fighter squadrons and enhance its operational capabilities.
• Several international aerospace manufacturers are vying for the contract, including Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, and Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F.
• The MRFA program is critical for modernizing the IAF’s fleet, maintaining air superiority, and addressing emerging regional threats. The procurement process emphasizes transparency and efficiency to ensure the timely induction of these aircraft into service.

Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA):

• India’s indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter project, aiming to enhance air superiority and strike capabilities.
• Incorporates geometric stealth and advanced materials to reduce radar cross-section.
• Designed to sustain supersonic speeds without afterburners.
• The first prototype is expected by 2028. Planned to commence by 2035.

Sukhoi Su-30MKI:

• A twin-engine, multirole air superiority fighter developed by Russia’s Sukhoi and built under license by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
• Key Specifications:
  • Length of 21.9 meters, wingspan of 14.7 meters, and height of 6.4 meters.
  • Maximum Take-off Weight: 38,800 kg.
  • Unrefuelled range of 3,000 km; with in-flight refuelling, it extends up to 8,000 km.
  • Equipped with a 30mm GSh-30-1 cannon and 12 hardpoints capable of carrying up to 8,000 kg of external stores, including various missiles and bombs.