Amid the growing air power of neighboring China and Pakistan, coupled with a shortage of fighter jets in the Indian Air Force (IAF), the central government has taken a significant step by forming a high-level committee to enhance the Air Force’s capacity. The committee, headed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, aims to oversee the comprehensive development of the IAF through indigenous design, development, and acquisition projects.
This strategic decision by the Defence Ministry comes as part of efforts to strengthen India’s defense capabilities, particularly in the air domain. The committee’s primary focus will be to improve the IAF’s operational readiness and ensure that it remains prepared to face emerging challenges from regional adversaries. The formation of this committee follows detailed presentations made by the IAF to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the Air Force Commanders’ Conference held in Delhi last month.
With the rapidly evolving military dynamics in the region, particularly with China and Pakistan bolstering their air forces, India has recognized the urgent need to modernize and expand its own air power. The committee’s formation reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that the IAF has the necessary resources and infrastructure to defend the nation’s airspace and maintain strategic deterrence.
The high-level committee will play a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s air defense, focusing on increasing the number and quality of fighter jets and other advanced aircraft. The committee’s work is expected to accelerate the pace of modernization and ensure that the Indian Air Force remains capable of meeting both current and future security challenges.