| Southern Air Command (SAC) |
commands. Each Command is headed by an Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief with the rank of Air Marshal. The purpose of an operational command is to conduct military operations using aircraft within its area of responsibility, whereas the responsibility of functional commands is to maintain combat readiness. Aside from the Training Command at Bangalore, the primary flight training is done at the Air Force Academy (located in Hyderabad), followed by operational training at various other schools. Advanced officer training for command positions is also conducted at the Defence Services Staff College; specialised advanced flight training schools are located at Bidar, Karnataka and Hakimpet, Telangana (also the location for helicopter training). Technical schools are found at a number of other locations.[108]
| Name |
Note: + = Functional Command
Wings
A wing is a formation intermediate between a command and a squadron. It generally consists of two or three IAF squadrons and helicopter units, along with forward base support units (FBSU). FBSUs do not have or host any squadrons or helicopter units but act as transit airbases for routine operations. In times of war, they can become fully fledged air bases playing host to various squadrons. In all, about 47 wings and 19 FBSUs make up the IAF.[116][117] Wings are typically commanded by an air commodore.[118]
Stations
Within each operational command are anywhere from nine to sixteen bases or stations. Smaller than wings, but similarly organised, stations are static units commanded by a group captain.[118] A station typically has one wing and one or two squadrons assigned to it.
Squadrons and units
Squadrons are the field units and formations attached to static locations. Thus, a flying squadron or unit is a sub-unit of an air force station which carries out the primary task of the IAF. A fighter squadron consists of 18 aircraft; all fighter squadrons are headed by a commanding officer with the rank of wing commander.[119] Some transport squadrons and helicopter units are headed by a commanding officer with the rank of group captain.
Flights
Flights are sub-divisions of squadrons, commanded by a squadron leader. Each flight consists of two sections.[120]
wing is a formation intermediate between a command and a squadron. It generally consists of two or three IAF squadrons and helicopter units, along with forward base support units (FBSU). FBSUs do not have or host any squadrons or helicopter units but act as transit airbases for routine operations. In times of war, they can become fully fledged air bases playing host to various squadrons. In all, about 47 wings and 19 FBSUs make up the IAF.[116][117] Wings are typically commanded by an air commodore.[118]
StationsWithin each operational command are anywhere from nine to sixteen bases or stations. Smaller than wings, but similarly organised, stations are static units commanded by a group captain.[118] A station typically has one wing and one or two squadrons assigned to it.
Squadrons and units
Squadrons are the field units and formations attached to static locations. Thus, a flying squadron or unit is a sub- Squadrons are the field units and formations attached to static locations. Thus, a flying squadron or unit is a sub-unit of an air force station which carries out the primary task of the IAF. A fighter squadron consists of 18 aircraft; all fighter squadrons are headed by a commanding officer with the rank of wing commander.[119] Some transport squadrons and helicopter units are headed by a commanding officer with the rank of group captain.
Flights
Flights are sub-divisions of squadrons, commanded by a squadron leader. Each flight consists of two sections.[120]
SectionsThe smallest unit is the section, led by a flight lieutenant. Each section consists of three aircraft.
Within this formation structure, IAF has several service branch Within this formation structure, IAF has several service branches for day-to-day operations. They are:[121]
In September 2004, the IAF established its own special operation unit called the Garud Commando Force, consisting of approximately 1,500 personnel. For starting this special force volunteers from existing trades were called and sent for commando and specialised training at various institutes of army and other forces. The airmen who successfully completed all course were inducted in Garud force, while special recruitment and selections from various IAF training institute were made for selecting young air warriors for Garud SF. By doing this IAF got two set of personnel for its SF, i.e. experienced senior lot with experience of working in various IAF units and younger airmen who can be groomed and brought up to the standards of SF. The unit derives its name from Garuda, a divine mythical bird of Hindu Mythology, but more commonly the word for Garuda in Sanskrit. Garud is tasked with the protection of critical installations; During hostilities, Garuds undertake combat search and rescue, rescue of downed airmen and other forces from behind enemy lines, suppression of enemy air defence (SEAD), radar busting, combat control, missile and munitions guidance ("lasing" of targets) and other missions in support of air operations. It has been suggested that they undertake an offensive role including raids on enemy air bases etc. during times of war.
Apart from protecting air bases from sabotage and attacks by commando raids, they are also tasked to seal off weapons systems, fighter hangars and other major systems during intrusions and conflicts. and disaster relief during calamities.[122]
Integrated Space Cell
An Integrated Space Cell, which will be jointly operated by all the three services of the Indian armed forces, the civilian Department of Space and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been set up to utilise more effectively the country's space-based assets for military purposes.[17][18] This command will leverage space technology including satellites. Unlike an aerospace command, where the air force controls most of its activities, the Integrated Space Cell envisages co-operation and co-ordination between the three services as well as civilian agencies dealing with space.[123]
India currently has 10[124] remote sensing satellites in orbit. Though most are not meant to be dedicated military satellites, some have a spatial resolution of 1 metre (3 ft 3 in) or below which can be also used for military applications. Noteworthy satellites include the Technology Experiment Satellite (TES) which has a panchromatic camera (PAN) with a resolution of 1 metre (3 ft 3 in),[125] the RISAT-2 which is capable of imaging in all-weather conditions and has a resolution of 1 metre (3 ft 3 in),[126] the CARTOSAT-2, CARTOSAT-2A[127][128] and CARTOSAT-2B[129] which carries a panchromatic camera which has a resolution of 800 millimetres or 31 inches (black and white only).
Display teams
 [122]
An Integrated Space Cell, which will be jointly operated by all the three services of the Indian armed forces, the civilian Department of Space and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been set up to utilise more effectively the country's space-based assets for military purposes.[17][18] This command will leverage space technology including satellites. Unlike an aerospace command, where the air force controls most of its activities, the Integrated Space Cell envisages co-operation and co-ordination between the three services as well as civilian agencies dealing with space.[123]
India currently has 10[124] remote sensing satellites in orbit. Though most are not meant to be dedicated military satellites, some have a spatial resolution of 1 metre (3 f India currently has 10[124] remote sensing satellites in orbit. Though most are not meant to be dedicated military satellites, some have a spatial resolution of 1 metre (3 ft 3 in) or below which can be also used for military applications. Noteworthy satellites include the Technology Experiment Satellite (TES) which has a panchromatic camera (PAN) with a resolution of 1 metre (3 ft 3 in),[125] the RISAT-2 which is capable of imaging in all-weather conditions and has a resolution of 1 metre (3 ft 3 in),[126] the CARTOSAT-2, CARTOSAT-2A[127][128] and CARTOSAT-2B[129] which carries a panchromatic camera which has a resolution of 800 millimetres or 31 inches (black and white only).
The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) (Surya Kiran is Sanskrit for Sun Rays) is an aerobatics demonstration team of the Indian Air Force. They were formed in 1996 and are successors to the Thunderbolts.[130] The team has a total of 13 pilots (selected from the fighter stream of the IAF) and operate 9 HAL HJT-16 Kiran Mk.2 trainer aircraft[130] painted in a "day-glo orange" and white colour scheme. The Surya Kiran team were conferred squadron status in 2006, and presently have the designation of 52 Squadron ("The Sharks").[131] The team is based at the Indian Air Force Station at Bidar.[130] The IAF has begun the process of converting Surya Kirans to BAE Hawks.[132]
Sarang (Sanskrit for Peacock) is the Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force. The team was formed in October 2003 and their first public performance was at the Asian Aerospace Show, Singapore, 2004.[133] The team flies four HAL Dhruvs[134] painted in red and white with a peacock figure at each side of the fuselage. The team is based at the Sulur Air Force Station, Coimbatore.
Personnel
 Sanskrit for Peacock) is the Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force. The team was formed in October 2003 and their first public performance was at the Asian Aerospace Show, Singapore, 2004. [133] The team flies four HAL Dhruvs[134] painted in red and white with a peacock figure at each side of the fuselage. The team is based at the Sulur Air Force Station, Coimbatore.
Over the years reliable sources provided notably divergent estimates of the personnel strength of the Indian Air Force after analysing open-source intelligence. The public policy organisation GlobalSecurity.org had estimated that the IAF had an estimated strength of 110,000 active personnel in 1994.[108] In 2006, Anthony Cordesman estimated that strength to be 170,000 in the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) publication "The Asian Conventional Military Balance in 2006".[135] In 2010, James Hackett revised that estimate to an approximate strength of 127,000 active personnel in the IISS publication "Military Balance 2010".[136]
As of 1 July 2017[update], the Indian Air Force has a sanctioned strength of 12,550 officers (12,404 serving with 146 under strength), and 142,529 airmen (127,172 serving with 15,357 under strength).[137][138]
Rank structure
Main article: [update], the Indian Air Force has a sanctioned strength of 12,550 officers (12,404 serving with 146 under strength), and 142,529 airmen (127,172 serving with 15,357 under strength). [137][138]
The rank structure of the Indian Air Force is based on that of the Royal Air Force. The highest rank attainable in the IAF is Marshal of the Indian Air Force, conferred by the President of India after exceptional service during wartime. MIAF Arjan Singh is the only officer to have achieved this rank. The head of the Indian Air Force is the Chief of the Air Staff, who holds the rank of Air Chief Marshal.
Officers
Anyone holding Indian citizenship can apply to be an officer in the Air Force as long as they satisfy the eligibility criteria. There are four entry points to become an officer. Male applicants, who are between the ages of 16Anyone holding Indian citizenship can apply to be an officer in the Air Force as long as they satisfy the eligibility criteria. There are four entry points to become an officer. Male applicants, who are between the ages of 161/2 and 19 and have passed high school graduation, can apply at the Intermediate level.[139] Men and women applicants, who have graduated from college (three-year course) and are between the ages of 18 and 28, can apply at the Graduate level entry.[140] Graduates of engineering colleges can apply at the Engineer level if they are between the ages of 18 and 28 years. The age limit for the flying and ground duty branch is 23 years of age and for technical branch is 28 years of age.[141] After completing a master's degree, men and women between the ages of 18 and 28 years can apply at the Post Graduate level. Post graduate applicants do not qualify for the flying branch. For the technical branch the age limit is 28 years and for the ground duty branch it is 25.[142] At the time of application, all applicants below 25 years of age must be single.[143] The IAF selects candidates for officer training from these applicants. After completion of training, a candidate is commissioned as a Flying Officer.[144]
Equivalent
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OF-10 |
OF-9 |
OF-8 |
OF-7 |
OF-6 |
OF-5 |
OF-4 |
OF-3 |
OF-2 |
OF-1 |
OF(D) and student officer
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The duty of an airman is to make sure that all the air and ground operations run smoothly. From operating Air Defence systems to fitting missiles, they are involved in all activities of an air base and give support to various technical and non-technical jobs.[145] The airmen of Technical trades are responsible for maintenance, repair and prepare for use the propulsion system of aircraft and other airborne weapon delivery system, Radar, Voice/Data transmission and reception equipment, latest airborne weapon delivery systems, all types of light, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic systems of airborne missiles, aero engines, aircraft fuelling equipment and heavy duty mechanical vehicles, cranes and loading equipment etc.[146] The competent and qualified Airmen from Technical trades also participate in flying as Flight Engineers, Flight Signallers and Flight Gunners. The recruitment of personnel below officer rank is conducted through All India Selection Tests and Recruitment Rallies. All India Selection Tests are conducted among 15 Airmen Selection Centres (ASCs) located all over India. These centres are under the direct functional control of Central Airmen Selection Board (CASB), with administrative control and support by respective commands. The role of CASB is to carry out selection and enrolment of airmen from the Airmen Selection Centres for their respective commands.[145] Candidates initially take a written test at the time of application. Those passing the written test undergo a physical fitness test, an interview conducted in English, and medical examination. Candidates for training are selected from individuals passing the battery of tests, on the basis of their performance. Upon completion of training, an individual becomes an Airman.[145] Some MWOs and WOs are granted honorary commission in the last year of their service as an honorary Flying Officer or Flight Lieutenant before retiring from the service.[145]
 Airmen during Air Force Day celebration. Honorary officers
Non combatants enrolled and civilians
Non combatants enrolled (NCs(E)) were established in British India as personal assistants to the officer class, and are equivalent to the orderly or sahayak of the Indian Army.[148]
Almost all the commands have some percentage of civilian strength which are central government employees. These are regular ranks which are prevalent in ministries. They are usually not posted outside their stations and are employed in administrative and non-technical work.[149][150]
Training and education
The Indian Armed Forces have set up numerous military academies across India for training its personnel, such as the National Defence Academy (NDA). Besides the tri-service institutions, the Indian Air Force has a Training Command and several training establishments. While technical and other support staff are trained at various Ground Training Schools, the pilots are trained at the Air Force Academy, Dundigul (located in Hyderabad). The Pilot Training Establishment at Allahabad, the Air Force Administrative College at Coimbatore, the Institute of Aerospace Medicine at Bangalore, the Air Force Technical College, Bangalore at Jalahalli, the Tactics and Air Combat and Defence Establishment at Gwalior, and the Paratrooper's Training School at Agra are some of the other training establishments of the IAF.
[148]
Almost all the commands have some percentage of civilian strength which are central government employees. These are regular ranks which are prevalent in ministries. They are usually not posted outside their stations and are employed in administrative and non-technical work.[149][150]
Training and education
The Indian Armed Forces have set up numerous military academies across India for training its personnel, such as the National Defence Academy (NDA). Besides the tri-service institutions, the Indian Air Force has a Training Command and several training establishments. While technical and other support staff are trained at various Ground Training Schools, the pilots are trained at the Air Force Academy, Dundigul (located in Hyderabad). The Pilot Training Establishment at Allahabad, the Air Force Administrative College at Coimbatore, the Institute of Aerospace Medicine at Bangalore, the Air Force Technical College, Bangalore at Jalahalli, the Tactics and Air Combat and Defence Establishment at Gwalior, and the Paratrooper's Training School at Agra are some of the other training establishments of the IAF.
List of active Indian Military Aircraft
Current Inventory
 The first batch of Rafale aircraft preparing to take off from Dassault Aviation Facility, Merignac, France on 27 Jul 2020.
| Aircraft
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Almost all the commands have some percentage of civilian strength which are central government employees. These are regular ranks which are prevalent in ministries. They are usually not posted outside their stations and are employed in administrative and non-technical work.[149][150]
The Indian Armed Forces have set up numerous military academies across India for training its personnel, such as the National Defence Academy (NDA). Besides the tri-service institutions, the Indian Air Force has a Training Command and several training establishments. While technical and other support staff are trained at various Ground Training Schools, the pilots are trained at the Air Force Academy, Dundigul (located in Hyderabad). The Pilot Training Establishment at Allahabad, the Air Force Administrative College at Coimbatore, the Institute of Aerospace Medicine at Bangalore, the Air Force Technical College, Bangalore at Jalahalli, the Tactics and Air Combat and Defence Establishment at Gwalior, and the Paratrooper's Training School at Agra are some of the other training establishments of the IAF.
List of active Indian Military Aircraft
Main article: [188] Flight International estimates there to be around 1,750 aircraft in service with the IAF, [3] while the International Institute for Strategic Studies provides a similar estimate of 1,750 aircraft. [4] Both sources agree there are approximately 900 combat capable (fighter, attack etc.) aircraft in the IAF. [3][4]
Multi-role fighters and strike aircraft
- Dassault Rafale: The latest addition to India's aircraft arsenal, India has signed a deal for 36 Dassault Rafale multirole fighter aircraft. The first five aircraft including three single-seater and two twin-seater aircraft arrived on 29th July 2020, at the Air Force Station, Ambala. No 17 Squadron, the “Golden Arrows”, is being raised at this base equipped with Rafale aircraft.[189]
- Sukhoi Su-30MKI: The IAF's primary air superiority fighter with the additional capability to conduct air-ground (strike) missions is Sukhoi Su-30MKI. 272 Su-30MKIs are in service as of January 2020[update] with 12 more on order with HAL.[190]
- Mikoyan MiG-29: The Mikoyan MiG-29 known as Baaz (Hindi for Hawk) is a dedicated air superiority fighter and constitutes the second line of defence after the Sukhoi Su-30MKI. 69 MiG-29s are in service, all of which have been recently upgraded to the MiG-29UPG standard. An additional 21 MiG 29s have been ordered recently with upgraded UPG standard.[191]
- Dassault Mirage 2000: The Dassault Mirage 2000, known as Vajra (Sanskrit for Diamond or thunderbolt) in Indian service, is the primary multirole fighter, the IAF currently operates 49 Mirage 2000Hs and 8 Mirage 2000 TH all of which are currently being upgraded to the Mirage 2000-5 MK2 standard with Indian specific modifications and 2 Mirage 2000-5 MK2 are in service as of March 2015[update].[192][193] The IAF's Mirage 2000 are scheduled to be phased out by 2030.[194]
- HAL Tejas: The MiG-21s are planned to be replaced by the indigenously built HAL Tejas.[195][196] The first Tejas IAF unit, No. 45 Squadron IAF Flying Daggers was formed on 1 July 2016 followed by No. 18 Squadron IAF "Flying Bullets" on 27 May 2020[197]. Initially being stationed at Bangalore, the first squadron will be placed at its home base at Sulur, Tamil Nadu.[198] The Tejas will be 40 aircraft of the MK1 variant and 83 of the MK1A variant. The latter will have an AESA radar, improved EW fit and internal changes for ease of maintenance.
- SEPECAT Jaguar: The SEPECAT Jaguar known as Shamsher serves as the IAF's primary ground attack force.[199] The IAF currently operates 139 Jaguars.[200] The first batch of DARIN-1 Jaguars are now going through a DARIN-3 upgrade being equipped with EL/M-2052 AESA radars, and an improved jamming suite plus new avionics. These aircraft are scheduled to be phased out by 2030.[194]
- Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21: The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 serves as an Interceptor aircraft in the IAF. The IAF have phased out most of its MiG-21s and plans to keep only 125 that have been upgraded to MiG-21 Bison standard.[201] The phase-out date for these aircraft has been postponed several times. Initially set for 2014–2017,[151] it was later postponed to 2019.[202] Currently phase-out is scheduled for 2021–2022.[194]
Airborne early warning and control system
The IAF is currently training the crew in operating the indigenously developed DRDO AEW&CS flying on the Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft. The IAF also operates the EL/W-2090 Phalcon AEW&C incorporated in a Beriev A-50 platform. A total of 3 such systems are currently in service, with possible orders for 2 more.[203][204][205] The two extra Phalcons are currently in negotiation over price differences between Russia and India. India is also going ahead with Project India, an inhouse AWACS program to develop and deliver 6 Phalcon class AWACS, based on DRDO work on the smaller AEW&CS.
Aerial refuelling
The IAF currently operates 7 Ilyushin Il-78MKIs in the aerial refuelling (tanker) role.[206][207]
Transport aircraft
For strategic airlift operations the IAF uses the Ilyushin Il-76, known as Gajraj (Hindi for King Elephant) in Indian service.[208] The IAF operated 17 Il-76s in 2010,[209] which are in the process of being replaced by C-17 Globemaster IIIs.[210][211]
The IAF C-130Js are used by special forces for combined Army-Air Force operations.[212] India purchased six C-130Js; however one crashed at Gwalior on 28 March 2014 while on a training mission, killing all 5 on board and destroying the aircraft.[213][214] The Antonov An-32, known in Indian service as the Sutlej (named after Sutlej River), serves as a medium transport aircraft in the IAF. The aircraft is also used in bombing roles and para-dropping operations.[215] The IAF currently operates 105 An-32s, all of which are being upgraded.[215] The Dornier Do 228 serves as light transport aircraft in the IAF.[216] The IAF also operates Boeing 737s[217] and Embraer ECJ-135 Legacy aircraft[218] as VIP transports and passenger airliners for troops. Other VIP transport aircraft are used for both the President of India and the Prime Minister of India under the call sign Air India One.[219]
The Hawker Siddeley HS 748 once formed the backbone of the IAF's transport fleet, but are now used mainly for training and communication duties.[220] A replacement is under consideration.[221]
Trainer aircraft
The HAL HPT-32 Deepak is IAF's basic flight training aircraft for cadets.[222] The HPT-32 was grounded in July 2009 following a crash that killed two senior flight instructors,[223] but was revived in May 2010[223] and is to be fitted with a parachute recovery system (PRS) to enhance survivability during an emergency in the air and to bring the trainer down safely.[223] The HPT-32 is to be phased out soon.[223] The HPT 32 has been replaced by Pilatus, a Swiss aircraft. The IAF uses the HAL HJT-16 Kiran mk.I for intermediate flight training of cadets, while the HJT-16 Kiran mk.II provides advanced flight and weapons training.[224][225] The HAL HJT-16 Kiran Mk.2 is also operated by the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the IAF.[226] The Kiran is to be replaced by the HAL HJT-36 Sitara.[227] The BAE Hawk Mk 132 serves as an advanced jet trainer in the IAF and is progressively replacing the Kiran Mk.II. The IAF has begun the process of converting the Surya Kiran display team to Hawks.[132] A total of 106 BAE Hawk trainers have been ordered by the IAF of which 39 have entered service as of July 2010[update].[228] IAF also ordered 72 Pipistrel Virus SW 80 microlight aircraft for basic training purpose.[229][230]
Helicopters
The HAL Dhruv serves primarily as a light utility helicopter in the IAF. In addition to transport and utility roles, newer Dhruvs are also used as attack helicopters.[231] Four Dhruvs are also operated by the Indian Air Force Sarang Helicopter Display Team.[134] The HAL Chetak is a light utility helicopter and is used primarily for training, rescue and light transport roles in the IAF.[232] The HAL Chetak is being gradually replaced by HAL Dhruv.[232] The HAL Cheetah is a light utility helicopter used for high altitude operations. It is used for both transport and search-and-rescue missions in the IAF.[233]
The Mil Mi-8 and the Mil Mi-17, Mi-17 1V and Mi-17V 5 are operated by the IAF for medium lift strategic and utility roles. The Mi-8 is being progressively replaced by the Mi-17 series of helicopters.[234][235] The IAF has ordered 22 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, 68 HAL Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), 35 HAL Rudra attack helicopters, 15 CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helicopters and 150 Mi-17V-5s to replace and augment its existing fleet of Mi-8s, Mi-17s, and Mi-24s.[236] The Mil Mi-26 serves as a heavy lift helicopter in the IAF. It can also be used to transport troops or as a flying ambulance. The IAF currently operates three Mi-26s.[237]
The Mil Mi-35 serves primarily as an attack helicopter in the IAF. The Mil Mi-35 can also act as a low-capacity troop transport. The IAF currently operates two squadrons (No. 104 Firebirds and No. 125 Gladiators) of Mi-25/35s.[238]
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
The IAF currently uses the IAI Searcher II[239] and IAI Heron[240] for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes. The IAI Harpy serves as an Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) which is designed to attack radar systems.[241] The IAF also operates the DRDO Lakshya which serves as realistic towed aerial sub-targets for live fire training.[242]
Land-based missile systems
Surface-To Air Missiles
The air force operates twenty-five squadrons of S-125 Pechora, six squadrons of 9K33 Osa-AK, ten flights of 9K38 Igla-1, eight squadrons of Akash[243] along with a single squadron of SPYDER for air defence.[244][245] Six squadrons of Akash were ordered in 2010 and an order for seven more squadrons is planned.[246] An order for eighteen SPYDER systems was placed in 2008, which is expected to be organised into a total of four squadrons.[247][245]
Ballistic missiles
The IAF currently operates the Prithvi-II short-range ballistic missile (SRBM). The Prithvi-II is an IAF-specific variant of the Prithvi ballistic missile.[248]
Future
The number of aircraft in the IAF has been decreasing from the late 1990s due to the retirement of older aircraft and several crashes. To deal with the depletion of force levels, the IAF has started to modernise its fleet. This includes both the upgrade of existing aircraft, equipment and infrastructure as well as induction of new aircraft and equipment, both indigenous and imported. As new aircraft enter service and numbers recover, the IAF plans to have a fleet of 42 squadrons.[249]
Expected future acquisitions
Single-engined fighter
On 3 January 2017, Minister of Defence Manohar Parrikar addressed a media conference and announced plans for a competition to select a Strategic Partner to deliver "... 200 new single engine fighters to be made in India, which will easily cost around (USD)$45 million apiece without weaponry" with an expectation that Lockheed Martin (USA) and Saab (Sweden) will pitch the F-16 Block 70 and Gripen, respectively. An MoD official said that a global tender will be put to market in the first quarter of 2018,[250][251] with a private company nominated as the strategic partners production agency followed by a two or more year process to evaluate technical and financial bids and conduct trials, before the final government-to-government deal in 2021. This represents 11 squadrons of aircraft plus several 'attrition' aircraft.[252] India is also planning to set up an assembly line of American Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon Block 70 in Bengaluru. It is not yet confirmed whether IAF will induct these aircraft or not.
In 2018, the defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman gave the go ahead to scale up the manufacturing of Tejas at HAL and also to export Tejas. She is quoted saying "We are not ditching the LCA. We have not gone for anything instead of Tejas. We are very confident that Tejas Mark II will be a big leap forward to fulfil the single engine fighter requirement of the forces.".[253] IAF committed to buy 201 Mark-II variant of the Tejas taking the total order of Tejas to 324.[254] The government also scrapped the plan to import single engine fighters leading to reduction in reliance on imports thereby strengthening the domestic defence industry.[255]
The IAF also submitted a request for information to international suppliers for a stealth unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV)DRDO AEW&CS flying on the Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft. The IAF also operates the EL/W-2090 Phalcon AEW&C incorporated in a Beriev A-50 platform. A total of 3 such systems are currently in service, with possible orders for 2 more.[203][204][205] The two extra Phalcons are currently in negotiation over price differences between Russia and India. India is also going ahead with Project India, an inhouse AWACS program to develop and deliver 6 Phalcon class AWACS, based on DRDO work on the smaller AEW&CS.
Aerial refuelling
The IAF currently operates 7 Ilyushin Il-78MKIs in the aerial refuelling (tanker) role.[206][207]
Transport aircraft
For strategic airlift operations the IAF uses the Ilyushin Il-76, known as Gajraj (Hindi for King Elephant) in Indian service.[208] The IAF operated 17 Il-76s in 2010,[209] which are in the process of being replaced by C-17 Globemaster IIIs.[210][211]
The IAF C-130Js are used by special forces for combined Army-Air Force operations.[212] India purchased six C-130Js; however one crashed at Gwalior on 28 March 2014 while on a training mission, killing all 5 on board and destroying the aircraft.[213][214] The Antonov An-32, known in Indian service as the Sutlej (named after Sutlej River), serves as a medium transport aircraft in the IAF. The aircraft is also used in bombing roles and para-dropping operations.[215] The IAF currently operates 105 An-32s, all of which are being upgraded.[215] The Dornier Do 228 serves as light transport aircraft in the IAF.[216] The IAF also operates Boeing 737s[217] and Embraer ECJ-135 Legacy aircraft[218] as VIP transports and passenger airliners for troops. Other VIP transport aircraft are used for both the President of India and the Prime Minister of India under the call sign Air India One.[219]
The Hawker Siddeley HS 748 once formed the backbone of the IAF's transport fleet, but are now used mainly for training and communication duties.[220] A replacement is under consideration.[221]
Trainer aircraft
The HAL HPT-32 Deepak is IAF's basic flight training aircraft for cadets.[222] The HPT-32 was grounded in July 2009 following a crash that killed two senior flight instructors,[223] but was revived in May 2010[223] and is to be fitted with a parachute recovery system (PRS) to enhance survivability during an emergency in the air and to bring the trainer down safely.[223] The HPT-32 is to be phased out soon.[223] The HPT 32 has been replaced by Pilatus, a Swiss aircraft. The IAF uses the HAL HJT-16 Kiran mk.I for intermediate flight training of cadets, while the HJT-16 Kiran mk.II provides advanced flight and weapons training.[224][225] The HAL HJT-16 Kiran Mk.2 is also operated by the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the IAF.[226] The The IAF currently operates 7 Ilyushin Il-78MKIs in the aerial refuelling (tanker) role.[206][207]
Transport aircraftFor strategic airlift operations the IAF uses the Ilyushin Il-76, known as Gajraj (Hindi for King Elephant) in Indian service.[208] The IAF operated 17 Il-76s in 2010,[209] which are in the process of being replaced by C-17 Globemaster IIIs.[210][211]
The IAF C-130Js are used by special forces for combined Army-Air Force operations.[212] India purchased six C-130Js; however one crashed at Gwalior on 28 March 2014 while on a training mission, killing all 5 on board and destroying the aircraft.[213][214] The Antonov An-32, known in Indian service as the Sutlej (named after Sutlej River), serv The IAF C-130Js are used by special forces for combined Army-Air Force operations.[212] India purchased six C-130Js; however one crashed at Gwalior on 28 March 2014 while on a training mission, killing all 5 on board and destroying the aircraft.[213][214] The Antonov An-32, known in Indian service as the Sutlej (named after Sutlej River), serves as a medium transport aircraft in the IAF. The aircraft is also used in bombing roles and para-dropping operations.[215] The IAF currently operates 105 An-32s, all of which are being upgraded.[215] The Dornier Do 228 serves as light transport aircraft in the IAF.[216] The IAF also operates Boeing 737s[217] and Embraer ECJ-135 Legacy aircraft[218] as VIP transports and passenger airliners for troops. Other VIP transport aircraft are used for both the President of India and the Prime Minister of India under the call sign Air India One.[219]
The Hawker Siddeley HS 748 once formed the backbone of the IAF's transport fleet, but are now used mainly for training and communication duties.[220] A replacement is under consideration.[221]
The HAL HPT-32 Deepak is IAF's basic flight training aircraft for cadets.[222] The HPT-32 was grounded in July 2009 following a crash that killed two senior flight instructors,[223] but was revived in May 2010[223] and is to be fitted with a parachute recovery system (PRS) to enhance survivability during an emergency in the air and to bring the trainer down safely.[223] The HPT-32 is to be phased out soon.[223] The HPT 32 has been replaced by Pilatus, a Swiss aircraft. The IAF uses the HAL HJT-16 Kiran mk.I for intermediate flight training of cadets, while the HJT-16 Kiran mk.II provides advanced flight and weapons training.[224][225] The HAL HJT-16 Kiran Mk.2 is also operated by the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the IAF.[226] The Kiran is to be replaced by the HAL HJT-36 Sitara.[227] The BAE Hawk Mk 132 serves as an advanced jet trainer in the IAF and is progressively replacing the Kiran Mk.II. The IAF has begun the process of converting the Surya Kiran display team to Hawks.[132] A total of 106 BAE Hawk trainers have been ordered by the IAF of which 39 have entered service as of July 2010[update].[228] IAF also ordered 72 Pipistrel Virus SW 80 microlight aircraft for basic training purpose.[229][230]
Helicopters
 HAL Dhruv serves primarily as a light utility helicopter in the IAF. In addition to transport and utility roles, newer Dhruvs are also used as attack helicopters. [231] Four Dhruvs are also operated by the Indian Air Force Sarang Helicopter Display Team. [134] The HAL Chetak is a light utility helicopter and is used primarily for training, rescue and light transport roles in the IAF. [232] The HAL Chetak is being gradually replaced by HAL Dhruv. [232] The HAL Cheetah is a light utility helicopter used for high altitude operations. It is used for both transport and search-and-rescue missions in the IAF. [233]
The Mil Mi-8 and the Mil Mi-17, Mi-17 1V and Mi-17V 5 are operated by the IAF for medium lift strategic and utility roles. The The Mil Mi-8 and the Mil Mi-17, Mi-17 1V and Mi-17V 5 are operated by the IAF for medium lift strategic and utility roles. The Mi-8 is being progressively replaced by the Mi-17 series of helicopters.[234][235] The IAF has ordered 22 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, 68 HAL Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), 35 HAL Rudra attack helicopters, 15 CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helicopters and 150 Mi-17V-5s to replace and augment its existing fleet of Mi-8s, Mi-17s, and Mi-24s.[236] The Mil Mi-26 serves as a heavy lift helicopter in the IAF. It can also be used to transport troops or as a flying ambulance. The IAF currently operates three Mi-26s.[237]
The Mil Mi-35 serves primarily as an attack helicopter in the IAF. The Mil Mi-35 can also act as a low-capacity troop transport. The IAF currently operates two squadrons (No. 104 Firebirds and No. 125 Gladiators) of Mi-25/35s.[238]
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
The IAF currently uses the IAI Searcher II[239] and IAI Heron[240] for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes. The IAI Harpy serves as an Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) which is designed to attack radar systems.[241] The IAF also operates the DRDO Lakshya which serves as realistic towed aerial sub-targets for live fire training.Mil Mi-35 serves primarily as an attack helicopter in the IAF. The Mil Mi-35 can also act as a low-capacity troop transport. The IAF currently operates two squadrons (No. 104 Firebirds and No. 125 Gladiators) of Mi-25/35s.[238]
The IAF currently uses the IAI Searcher II[239] and IAI Heron[240] for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes. The IAI Harpy serves as an Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) which is designed to attack radar systems.[241] The IAF also operates the DRDO Lakshya which serves as realistic towed aerial sub-targets for live fire training.[242]
Land-based missile systemsThe air force operates twenty-five squadrons of S-125 Pechora, six squadrons of 9K33 Osa-AK, ten flights of 9K38 Igla-1, eight squadrons of Akash[243] along with a single squadron of SPYDER for air defence.[244][245] Six squadrons of Akash were ordered in 2010 and an order for seven more squadrons is planned.[246] An order for eighteen SPYDER systems was placed in 2008, which is expected to be organised into a total of four squadrons.[247][245]
Ballistic missiles
The IAF currently operates the Prithvi-II short-range ballistic missile (SRBM). The Prithvi-II is an IAF-specific variant of the Prithvi ballistic missile.[248]
Future
The number of aircraft in the IAF has been decreasing from the late 1990s due to the retirement of older aircraft and several crashes. To deal with the depletion of force levels, the IAF has started to modernise its fleet. This includes both the upgrade of existing aircraft, equipment and infrastructure as well as induction of new aircraft and equipment, both indigenous and imported. As new aircraft enter service and numbers recover, the IAF plans to have a fleet of 42 squadrons.ballistic missile (SRBM). The Prithvi-II is an IAF-specific variant of the Prithvi ballistic missile.[248]
Future
[249]
Expected future acquisitions
Single-engined fighter
On 3 January 2017, Minister of Defence Manohar Parrikar addressed a media conference and announced plans for a competition to select a Strategic Partner to deliver "... 200 new single engine fighters to be made in India, which will easily cost around (USD)$45 million apiece without weaponry" with an expectation that Lockheed Martin (USA) and Saab (Sweden) will pitch the F-16 Block 70 and Gripen, respectively. An MoD official said that a global tender will be put to market in the first quarter of 2018,[250][251] with a private company nominated as the strategic partners production agency followed by a two or more year process to evaluate technical and financial bids and conduct trials, before the final government-to-government deal in 2021. This represents 11 squadrons of aircraft plus several 'attrition' aircraft.[252] India is also planning to set up an assembly line of American Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon Block 70 in Bengaluru. It is not yet confirmed whether IAF will induct these aircraft or not.
In 2018, the defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman gave the go ahead to scale up the manufacturing of Tejas at HAL and also to expor In 2018, the defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman gave the go ahead to scale up the manufacturing of Tejas at HAL and also to export Tejas. She is quoted saying "We are not ditching the LCA. We have not gone for anything instead of Tejas. We are very confident that Tejas Mark II will be a big leap forward to fulfil the single engine fighter requirement of the forces.".[253] IAF committed to buy 201 Mark-II variant of the Tejas taking the total order of Tejas to 324.[254] The government also scrapped the plan to import single engine fighters leading to reduction in reliance on imports thereby strengthening the domestic defence industry.[255]
The IAF also submitted a request for information to international suppliers for a stealth unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV)[256]
The IAF has placed orders for 123 HAL Tejas 40 Mark 1 and 83 Mark 1A fighters,[257] 36 Dassault Rafale multi-role fighters,[258], 106 basic trainer aircraft HAL HTT-40, 112 Pilatus PC-7MkII basic trainers,[259][260] 72 HAL HJT-36 Sitara trainers,[132] 72 Pipistrel Virus SW 80 microlight aircraft,[261][262] 65 HAL Light Combat Helicopters,[263] 139 Mi-17V-5 helicopters,[236][264] 18 Israeli SPYDER Surface to Air Missile (SAM) units,[265] 6 Airbus A330 MRTT [266] 22 AH-64E Apache Longbow heavy attack helicopters,[267] 15 CH-47F medium lift helicopters[268][269] and IAI Harop UCAVs.[241][270]
DRDO and HAL projects
Indian defence companies such as HAL and DRDO are developing several aircraft for the IAF such as the HAL Tejas,[195][196] Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA),[271] DRDO AEW&CS (revived fro Indian defence companies such as HAL and DRDO are developing several aircraft for the IAF such as the HAL Tejas,[195][196] Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA),[271] DRDO AEW&CS (revived from the Airavat Project),[272] NAL Saras,[273] HAL HJT-36 Sitara,[274] HAL HTT-40, HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH),[275] HAL Light Utility Helicopter (LUH),[276] DRDO Rustom[277] and AURA (Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft) UCAV.[citation needed] DRDO has developed the Akash missile system for the IAF[278][279] and is developing the Maitri SAM with MBDA.[citation needed] DRDO is also developing the Prithvi II ballistic missile.[280]
HAL has undertaken the joint development of the Sukhoi/HAL FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft)[281] (a derivative project of the Sukhoi Su-57) with Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (UAC). HAL is also close to develop its own fifth generation fighter aircraft HAL Amca which will be inducted by 2028. DRDO has entered in a joint venture with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to develop the Barak 8 SAM.[282] DRDO is developing the air-launched version of the BrahMos cruise missile in a joint venture with Russia's NPO Mashinostroeyenia. DRDO has now successfully developed the nuclear capable Nirbhay cruise missile.[283]
The Air Force Network (AFNET), a robust digital information grid that enabled quick and accurate threat responses, was launched in 2010, helping the IAF become a truly network-centric air force. AFNET is a secure communication network linking command and control centres with offensive aircraft, sensor platforms and ground missile batteries. Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), an automated system for Air Defence operations will ride the AFNet backbone integrating ground and airborne sensors, weapon systems and command and control nodes. Subsequent integration with civil radar and other networks shall provide an integrated Air Situation Picture, and reportedly acts as a force multiplier for intelligence analysis, mission control, and support activities like maintenance and logistics. The design features multiple layers of security measures, including encryption and intrusion prevention technologies, to hinder and deter espionage efforts.[284]
Notes
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four wars
East Pakistan
Sanskrit
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