New Delhi: On the eve of the Indian Air Force’s 94th anniversary, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A P Singh says the IAF is moving in the “right direction” in its transformation but needs to move faster, with greater capacity, quicker induction and more combat mass. Speaking to air warriors and veterans in New Delhi on October 7, Singh also flags delays in key capability-development programmes.
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AP Singh says the IAF has shifted in recent years from a platform-centric approach to a capability-centric model, with greater emphasis on integrating different elements of air power. He says this approach proves its value during Operation Sindoor, while stressing that the force still needs to accelerate capability enhancement.
The Air Chief also points to delays in projects such as the LCA Mk-1A, which remain a concern as the IAF seeks to strengthen its fighter fleet. In his annual press conference earlier this month, Singh says the service’s fighter strength has fallen to around 29 squadrons against an authorised 42, with 36–40 new fighters required annually for the next few years to address the gap.
Beyond fighter aircraft, Singh highlights the need to build capabilities suited to rapidly evolving warfare. The IAF is increasingly focusing on the integration of manned aircraft, unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, indigenous weapons and other emerging technologies, while maintaining human decision-making in operational employment.
He also says the IAF’s transformation is being shaped by operational experience, military exercises, humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief missions and expanding air diplomacy. The force’s international engagements are increasingly aimed at strengthening interoperability and learning from partner air forces.
AP Singh’s remarks come just weeks before he hands over command to Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, who takes charge as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff on October 31. The leadership transition comes at a critical stage for the IAF, with fighter modernisation, indigenous aerospace programmes, unmanned warfare and faster technology induction emerging as key priorities.
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