Cope India-2009, the sixth in the series of Indo-US air exercise that began in Agra on Monday, will focus not only on transport operations, but also insertion and extraction of its special forces in hostile zones, as also searching for pilots, who may have crashed in enemy territory, and rescuing them.
"One of the focus of this exercise is joint operations by special forces of both IAF and USAF behind enemy lines, such as sending a team into hostile territory or to extricate a pilot, whose aircraft had crashed there," USAF's Cope India Director Colonel Raymond Lamarche said in Agra.
On the other hand,Opening a new front, HRD Minister Kapil Sibal favoured more weightage be given to Class 12 Board exam for IIT entrance and felt that the required minimum of 60 per cent marks could be raised but left it to a Committee to take a decision.
Sibal's suggestion came in an attempt to ensure that students taking entrance tests to the premier institutes gave equal importance to the secondary school exam and to check the growth of IIT coaching centres.
A Committee of IIT directors has been appointed to work out a revised system for IIT entrance from 2011, he said.
Sibal told reporters the move is aimed at ensuring that students take their class XII seriously and checking the growth of coaching centres, which are thriving on imparting coaching to students for IIT entrance.
Asked whether the higher minimum should be raised to 80 to 85 per cent, Sibal said it all depended upon the IIT system to take a decision.
India should shed its "submissive" and "timid" attitude towards China and show firmness in dealing with it on the boundary dispute by strengthening defence and cementing ties with Russia, Former Foreign Secretary A P Venkateswaran said.
He said China's "aggressive" stance was due to the "extremely submissive" attitude of India in recent years. Asked if he sees tension rising further between India and China, he said, "Yes, unless we show firmness and begin to take measures to strengthen our defence and also build up our relations, particularly with Russia which is more friendly towards us, in my considered view, than USA ever will be".
"After Indira Gandhi's time, New Delhi has pursued a policy of appeasement, not only towards China but towards all those governments which adopted a superior attitude, whether it was the USA or UK or China," Venkateswaran said.
According to Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said that China has not constructed any dam on Brahmaputra river that would have been a matter of concern for India.
Khandu, who led a delegation of state leaders to Singh, said on Monday that the Prime Minister had also told them that India would tackle the boundary issue with China diplomatically. The delegation met Singh to seek a review of the defence strategy for the eastern sector in view of Chinese incursions and expressed serious concern over reports of a dam being constructed by China on Brahmaputra river.
"The Prime Minister said no dam is being constructed and only run-of-the-river construction has been made," Khandu told reporters while citing a letter from the Chinese government. A media report last week had said that China was building a big dam on Brahmaputra river, prompting India to express concern over the development as it would change the course of the river and could result in submergence of low-lying areas downstream. India has no problem with run-off-the-river constructions but building of a dam as it involves storage of water.
Describing the recent verbal spat between China and India as "irritants," Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor has said the two countries shared a healthy relationship and minor issues should not be "blown out of proportion".
"I think its important that everyone scale down a little bit the temperature. It's not as if there is any substantive reason for hostilities between our countries," Tharoor told journalists in New York.
India and China exchanged verbal volleys earlier this month over Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, which Beijing considers a disputed region.
However Tharoor played down the controversy, saying the fresh border skirmishes were "irritants" and relations between the Asian neighbours should be viewed in a broader context.
"It is a relationship which has featured so much development and trade that China is now our number one trading partner in manufactured goods," Tharoor said. He pointed out that as many as 7000 Indians were studying in China and Indian companies like Infosys were hiring Chinese workers to work for them in India.
Warning that the situation in Pakistan is 'very serious', Defence Minister A K Antony on Monday said terrorism is "spreading" in that country and asserted that India is prepared to meet any challenge from Taliban militants.
"The situation in Pakistan is very serious and terrorism is spreading," he told reporters on the sidelines of the Territorial Army Day parade here.
Pakistan has been in the grip of a terror wave with six major attacks in the last fortnight by suspected Taliban militants, the latest being a suicide bomb attack in Peshawar in the restive North West Frontier Province on Friday last killing 14 people.
Asked if Talibans' threat to carry out attacks on India was a cause of concern, Antony said, "We are always prepared to meet any challenge to our territorial integrity and national security from any quarter. Our security forces are keeping eternal vigilance".
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) are at loggerheads over who will be on board the spacecraft when the country's first manned mission into space is launched in 2015.
Traditionally, countries that have sent men into space have chosen Air Force pilots as astronauts. Rakesh Sharma, the only Indian to have travelled to space so far, was also from the Air Force. He was a Squadron Leader—who retired as Wing Commander—when he went into space in 1984 aboard Soyuz T-11, the spacecraft of the then Soviet Union. So was his back up, Ravish Malhotra, who retired as Air Commodore.
But ISRO, which will plan and execute the mission, is challenging the conventional wisdom. It wants its own scientists on board the spacecraft. "It is not necessary that only men from the Services can be selected to become astronauts. Scientists from within ISRO can also be sent on the spacecraft," says S. Satish, director of public relations at ISRO.
Moving closer to achieving Initial Operational Capability configuration for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) by end of 2010, the Air Force conducted five-week multi-disciplinary trials of a pair of indigenous fighters at its Jamnagar air base.
"The trials entailed flight envelope expansion in various stores configurations, as well as air-to-ground weapon delivery trials in different modes of weapon delivery," a DRDO official said in New Delhi on Friday.
The LCA successfully demonstrated its ability to tackle targets designated visually by the pilot, officials added. After this phase, officials said that the LCA will be enabled by its on-board navigation and attack computers to take on targets, which are not visible to the pilot.
The five-week trials were conducted by the flight test crew of the National Flight Test Centre (NFTC) including their test pilots, flight test engineers and instrumentation specialists.
India's relationship with African countries is independent of China's activities in the continent and competition with Beijing does not determine its policies for Africa, Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor has said.
"As far as we're concerned, our relationship with the very many countries of Africa is independent of what China is doing there," Tharoor said during his first official visit to New York.
"It is unconstructive to see any of these relationships in terms of a third country," he said. Noting that development and reconstruction work in the region required contribution not only by China and India, but also by Western nations, Tharoor said: "competition is not the point".
"What we're doing in Africa, we're doing it because we think its the right thing to do as well as we're genuinely convinced that Africa is a place when India can make a valuable contribution," said Tharoor, who is heading to the West African nation of Benin this week after a trip to Liberia. The policy of the Indian government is to lead its private sector to Africa, where China already has a major presence especially in the field of infrastructure. A business delegation is accompanying Tharoor on his official visits to African countries.
Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said on Friday that his government is seriously concerned over reports of China constructing a dam on Yarlung Tsangpo river in Tibet, the source of river Brahmaputra.
"The Assam government is seriously concerned over the construction of a dam by China on river Yarlung Tsangpo. We apprehend it will affect Assam and dry up river Brahmaputra and other water resources downstream."
Stating that he would meet the prime minister and the union water resources minister for taking up the issue with Beijing, Gogoi said, "earlier I had taken it up with Manmohan Singh who then raised the issue with his Chinese counterpart.
China then denied that the dam would affect Assam or any other part of India."
The chief minister said the state would set up an expert committee to go into the necessary measures to be taken in the eventuality of China constructing the dam. "We will also involve the IIT here [Guwahati] if necessary."
A Bangkok-bound US military plane, which was grounded in Mumbai on Sunday for flouting Indian aviation rules, will leave on Monday.
This is the second instance of a US plane violating Indian airspace, but the Indian Air Force gave the green signal for the plane to leave after hectic parleys with US embassy officials in New Delhi, the Ministry of External Affairs and US authorities.
All the 205 passengers, who were on board the plane, were on Sunday night shifted to a five-star hotel in the western suburbs of Mumbai. Security has been beefed up in and around the hotel premises.
The chartered US military aircraft - Boeing 767 - belongs to the North American Airlines. The plane was carrying 205 US Marines from Fujairah, UAE to Bangkok.
The Indian Air Force ordered the plane to land on Sunday morning at the Mumbai Airport after it found a discrepancy in the aircraft's call sign. After a seven-hour drama, it was given the go-ahead to proceed.
Proliferation of small arms from China and other neighbouring countries, a porous international border, and presence of camps of different rebel groups inside Myanmar have been a major headache for the Army in the Northeast for the past few years.
The Army does not have direct evidence about the involvement of any Chinese agency in the trans-border arms transactions, but the recovery of a number of Chinese weapons from different rebel groups in the region in the past few years has indicated that China has an indirect role in the small arms bazaar in the region. "Though we do not have any evidence of the involvement of official agencies of China in the arms deals, there definitely exists a clandestine Chinese arms market which sells arms to different rebel groups of the Northeast," said Lt Gen N K Singh, GOC of the Army's 3 Corps, headquartered at Rangapahar near here.
Lt Gen Singh said the clandestine arms market was very active near the notorious Golden Triangle, with Northern Myanmar remaining the hotspot for both buyers and sellers. "Till sometime back, hundreds of such arms were recovered in the region. But with increased checks, we have considerably reduced the pool of arms available to different militant groups," he added.
In 2006 and 2007, security agencies had seized nearly 4,000 small arms and light weapons in the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir, nearly half of which were made in China. A March 2008 report of the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons (UNPoA) had said that about 46,000 illegal weapons were seized in the Northeast and J&K in between 1990 and 2008.
... contd.
Chinese arms, porous border worry Army
China snubs India, sets up quake centre
20 Oct 2009, 0940 hrs IST, TNN
China has set up an earthquake monitoring station at the foot of Mount Everest on the China-Nepal border. India and China have for long been discussing joint projects for monitoring earth quake and weather patterns in the Himalayas. But it now seems that China has decided to go ahead on its own.
The seismic monitoring facility will also help Beijing to keep a keep a close vigil on possible testing of nuclear devices by India, informed sources said. Seismic monitoring has been used in recent years to collect data on nuclear testing by North Korea and judge the extent of Pyongyang's nuclear development.
The new monitoring station is being set up 4,255 meters above sea level at Tingri County in Xigaze Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region.
Going by official reports, China begun construction of the monitoring station at a cost of $140,000 in June. This is the second station in Tibet with the first one being built in Shuanghu special zone, Nagqu Prefecture as recently as December 2008.
The establishment of two stations close to the Indian border in ten months shows Beijing's eagerness to go it alone instead of agreeing to the idea of joint project. Relationship between the two countries has soured during this period. India, US sharpen joint anti-terror drill 20 Oct 2009, 1155 hrs IST One of the major Indo-US war exercises took place on Tuesday (October 20) in Jhansi, when a bilateral war exercise called Yudhabhyas -- a land based exercise with nearly 1000 personnel from both sides taking part was conducted.
TIMES NOW accessed exclusive picture of this joint anti-terror drill, which is seen as a massive deployment of the US Army's Stryker armoured vehicles. These are used in Iraq and Afghanistan for combat.
The US has brought 17 such armored vehicles and approximately 500 soldiers to the Babina artillery command base near Jhansi.
"The aim of this exercise to conduct a joint Indo-U.S. training exercise under the framework of an agreed joint training program for sharing useful experience in peacekeeping operations and humanitarian and disaster-relief situations," the Indian Defence Ministry said in an Oct. 12 statement.
This exercise that will go on till the October 29 and is inclusive of live firing by heavy combat vehicles. This is the first time that mechanised units of the Indian Army will share expertise with any foreign army.
The seismic monitoring facility will also help Beijing to keep a keep a close vigil on possible testing of nuclear devices by India, informed sources said. Seismic monitoring has been used in recent years to collect data on nuclear testing by North Korea and judge the extent of Pyongyang's nuclear development.
The new monitoring station is being set up 4,255 meters above sea level at Tingri County in Xigaze Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region.
Going by official reports, China begun construction of the monitoring station at a cost of $140,000 in June. This is the second station in Tibet with the first one being built in Shuanghu special zone, Nagqu Prefecture as recently as December 2008.
The establishment of two stations close to the Indian border in ten months shows Beijing's eagerness to go it alone instead of agreeing to the idea of joint project. Relationship between the two countries has soured during this period.
TIMES NOW accessed exclusive picture of this joint anti-terror drill, which is seen as a massive deployment of the US Army's Stryker armoured vehicles. These are used in Iraq and Afghanistan for combat.
The US has brought 17 such armored vehicles and approximately 500 soldiers to the Babina artillery command base near Jhansi.
"The aim of this exercise to conduct a joint Indo-U.S. training exercise under the framework of an agreed joint training program for sharing useful experience in peacekeeping operations and humanitarian and disaster-relief situations," the Indian Defence Ministry said in an Oct. 12 statement.
This exercise that will go on till the October 29 and is inclusive of live firing by heavy combat vehicles. This is the first time that mechanised units of the Indian Army will share expertise with any foreign army.
Tue, 20 Oct 2009 05:42:48 GMT
Cope-India '09: Indo-US air exercise
A six-day joint exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the US Air Force began in Agra on Monday. The event at the Taj Mahal town's IAF base, which testifies to the growing ties between the two militaries, involves five US air force transport planes and seven Indian planes with practice of various techniques including airdrops and joint land to air missions.
A US Air force paratrooper packs his parachute after his landing during 'Cope-India-09', a joint exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the US Air Force in Agra. REUTERS
A six-day joint exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the US Air Force began in Agra on Monday. The event at the Taj Mahal town's IAF base, which testifies to the growing ties between the two militaries, involves five US air force transport planes and seven Indian planes with practice of various techniques including airdrops and joint land to air missions.
A US Air force paratrooper packs his parachute after his landing during 'Cope-India-09', a joint exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the US Air Force in Agra. REUTERS
Indian Army, IAF hold joint exercises near China border 30 Sep 2009, 1914 hrs IST With the aim of checking their preparedness, the Army and the Air Force carried out a joint exercise in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh near the Chinese border last week. Codenamed 'Operation Pralay', the three-day exercise involved all the frontline fighter aircraft, including Sukhoi, Mirage-2000, MiG-29, MiG-27 and IL-78 air-to-air refueling planes, Defence Ministry sources said in New Delhi on Wednesday (September 30). Army personnel with their Mi-17, Cheetah and Chetak helicopters also participated in the war-games, they said.
The exercise held between September 22 and 24 involved all the frontier air bases in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, they said. "The Army and the IAF carried out the three-day joint exercise with the aim of checking preparedness and jointness," a source said. The exercise was coordinated by IAF's Shillong-based Eastern Air Command and the army's Eastern Command in Kolkata. The exercise came in the backdrop of reports of Chinese ground and air incursions in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh, which both the countries have been trying to downplay.
The exercise held between September 22 and 24 involved all the frontier air bases in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, they said. "The Army and the IAF carried out the three-day joint exercise with the aim of checking preparedness and jointness," a source said. The exercise was coordinated by IAF's Shillong-based Eastern Air Command and the army's Eastern Command in Kolkata. The exercise came in the backdrop of reports of Chinese ground and air incursions in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh, which both the countries have been trying to downplay.
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| MARKET OPEN Oct 20, 2009 14:12:41 hours IST | ||||
| INDEX | CURRENT | PREV. | %CHANGE | |
| S&P CNX NIFTY | 5111.35 | | 5141.80 | -0.59% |
| CNX NIFTY JUNIOR | 9969.90 | | 10003.85 | -0.34% |
| CNX IT | 5005.85 | | 4967.45 | 0.77% |
| BANK NIFTY | 9466.65 | | 9513.40 | -0.49% |
| CNX 100 | 5011.65 | | 5038.95 | -0.54% |
| S&P CNX DEFTY | 3840.00 | | 3848.85 | -0.23% |
| S&P CNX 500 | 4196.45 | | 4207.05 | -0.25% |
| CNX MIDCAP | 7167.35 | | 7168.60 | -0.02% |
| NIFTY MIDCAP 50 | 2638.30 | | 2642.15 | -0.15% |
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Government Approves Indian Air Force Exercise With Communist China
Dated 11/4/2008
"The Surya Kiran team will perform in China, probably sometime around October or November. This will be a goodwill trip. Any IAF exercise with China is likely to take place only after that," IAF sources told this newspaper. The Surya Kiran team, comprising 11 aircraft and pilots in all, is the daredevil aerobatics team of the IAF which has performed in several countries around the world and amazed audiences with its skill.
The nod from the government is an indication of the fact that ties with China are on course despite the ongoing protests by Tibetans in India ahead of the Beijing Olympics.
Discussions are also expected in New Delhi soon between India and China to discuss the modalities and venue for the Sino-Indian joint Army exercises to be held in India later this year. During his visit to the border post of Longewala in February, defence minister A.K. Antony had stated that the next Sino-Indian joint Army exercises would be held in India. This would be the second such joint Army exercise between the two countries. The first Sino-Indian joint Army exercise was held in China in December last year near the city of Kunming.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between India and China in May 2006 during a visit by the then defence minister (and current external affairs minister) Pranab Mukherjee to China that stipulated that the two countries would hold joint military exercises, join forces in counter-terrorism and anti-piracy efforts and also cooperate in search and rescue operations.
Meanwhile, the IAF is also eagerly looking forward to the responses by vendors to the RFP for acquisition of 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft.
The IAF has constantly expressed concern over the declining number of its fighter squadrons and has emphasised the need for more fighter aircraft to bolster the number of its fighter squadrons.
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Indian Air Force
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Indian Air force | |
|---|---|
 Ensign of the Indian Air Force | |
| Founded | October 8, 1932 |
| Country | India |
| Size | 170,000 personnel 1,700 aircraft (including 852 combat aircraft) |
| Part of | Indian Armed Forces |
| Headquarters | New Delhi, India |
| Motto | Sanskrit: Nabha Sparsham Deeptam "Touch the Sky with Glory"[1] |
| Colour | Navy blue, sky blue and white |
| Commanders | |
| Chief of the Air Staff | Air Chief Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik |
| Insignia | |
| Crest |  |
| Roundel |  |
| Fin flash |  |
| Aircraft flown | |
| Attack | Jaguar IS, MiG-21, MiG-27 |
| Electronic warfare | IAI Phalcon |
| Fighter | Su-30 MKI, Mirage 2000H, MiG-29 |
| Helicopter | Dhruv, Chetak, Cheetah, Mi-8/Mi-17, Mi-26, Mi-25/35 |
| Reconnaissance | Gulfstream IV |
| Transport | Il-76 MD, An-32, HS-748, Boeing 707, Boeing 737 |
The Indian Air Force (IAF; Devanāgarī: भारतीय वायु सेना, Bhartiya Vāyu Senā) is the air arm of the armed forces of India. Its primary responsibility is to secure Indian airspace and to conduct aerial warfare during a conflict. It was officially established on October 8, 1932 as an auxiliary air force of the Indian Empire and the prefix Royal was added in 1945 in recognition of its services during the World War II. After India achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1947, the Royal Indian Air Force served the Union of India, with the prefix being dropped when India became a republic in 1950.
Since independence, the IAF has been involved in four wars with neighboring Pakistan and one with the People's Republic of China. Other major operations undertaken by the IAF include Operation Vijay, Operation Meghdoot and Operation Cactus. Apart from conflicts, the IAF has been an active participant in United Nations peacekeeping missions.
The President of India serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the IAF. The Chief of Air Staff, an Air Chief Marshal (ACM), is a four star commander and commands the Air Force. There is never more than one serving ACM at any given time in the IAF. One officer has been conferred the rank of Marshal of the Air Force, a 5-star rank and the officer serves as the ceremonial chief.
With strength of approximately 170,000 personnel and 1,700 aircraft, including 852 combat aircraft in active service, the Indian Air Force is the world's fourth largest.[2][3] In recent years, the IAF has undertaken an ambitious expansion and modernisation program to replace its aging Soviet-era fighter jets. Among the various expansion plans is the MRCA program under which the IAF plans to induct 126 fighter jets at a cost of US$12 billion.
Contents[hide] |
[edit] Mission
| Indian Air Force | ||||||||||||
|
The IAF's mission is defined by the Armed Forces Act of 1947, Constitution of India and the Air Force Act of 1950, in the aerial battlespace, as: Defence of India and every part thereof including preparation for defence and all such acts as may be conducive in times of war to its prosecution and after its termination to effective demobilisation.[4] Moreover, the air force, along with the other branches of the Indian armed forces, can assist local and state governments; if assistance is sought by such government during natural disasters and for maintaining internal security.
[edit] History
The Indian Air Force was established as an auxiliary air force[5] of the RAF with the enactment of the Indian Air Force Act of 1932 on October 8 that year.[6][7] On April 1, 1933, the IAF commissioned its first squadron, No.1 Squadron, with four Westland Wapiti biplanes and five Indian pilots. The Indian pilots were led by Flight Lieutenant (later Air Vice Marshal) Cecil Bouchier.[8] Until 1938, No. 1 Squadron remained the only squadron of the IAF, though two more flights were added.[8] During the Second World War, the Air Force had grown to seven squadrons in 1943 and to nine squadrons in 1945.[8] In recognition of the crucial role played by the IAF, King George VI conferred it the prefix Royal in 1945.[7][9] Indian National Army youth cadets were trained by Imperial Japanese Army Air Force Academy in 1944.[10]
After Indian independence in 1947, Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF) was bifurcated. Three of the ten operational squadrons and facilities located within the borders of Pakistan were transferred to Royal Pakistan Air Force.[11]
In 1947, when a conflict broke out over the control of erstwhile principality of Jammu & Kashmir, the Maharaja of the state decided to accede India in order to receive military help.[12] The day after instrument of accession was signed, the RIAF was called upon to mobilise armed troops into the war-zone.[12] This led to the eruption of full scale war between India and Pakistan without a formal declaration.[13] During the war, the RIAF did not engage Pakistan Air Force in air-to-air combat; however, it did provide effective transport and close air support to the Indian troops.[14] When India became a Republic in 1950, the Royal title was dropped to become the Indian Air Force.[7]
In 1960, when Belgium's 75-year colonial rule of the Congo ended abruptly, widespread violence and rebellion engulfed the nation.[15] IAF aircraft arrived in Congo to support United Nations Operation in the Congo and started undertaking operational missions in November.[16] The unit remained there until 1966, when the UN mission ended.[16]
During the Sino-Indian War of 1962, India's military planners failed to deploy and effectively use the IAF against the invading Chinese forces.[18] Three years after the Sino-Indian conflict, in 1965, India went to war with Pakistan again over Kashmir. Learning from the experiences of the Sino-Indian war, India decided to use its air force extensively during the war. This was the first time the IAF actively engaged an enemy air force.[19] However, instead of providing close air support to the Indian Army,[20] the IAF carried out independent raids against Pakistani Air Force (PAF) bases.[21] These bases were situated deep inside Pakistani territory, making IAF fighters vulnerable to anti-aircraft fire.[22] During the course of the conflict, the PAF enjoyed qualitative superiority over the IAF because most of the jets in IAF's fleet were of World War II vintage. Despite this, the IAF was able to prevent the PAF from gaining air superiority over conflict zones.[23] By the time the conflict had ended, Pakistan claimed to have shot down 113 IAF aircraft while the Indians claimed that 73 PAF aircraft were downed.[24] More than 60% of IAF's air combat losses took place during the disastrous battles over Kalaikunda and Pathankot; where most of the losses were on the ground.[25]
After the 1965 war, the IAF underwent a series of changes. In 1966, the Para Commandos regiment was created.[26] With an intention of increasing its logistics supply and rescue operations ability, the IAF inducted 72 Avro 748s which were built by Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) under license from Avro.[27] India started to lay more stress on indigenous manufacture of fighter aircraft. HAL HF-24 Marut, designed by the famed German aerospace engineer Kurt Tank,[28] were inducted into the air force. HAL also started working on a new improved version of the Folland Gnat, known as HAL Ajeet. At the same time, the IAF also started inducting Mach 2 capable Soviet MiG-21 and Sukhoi Su-7 fighters.
By late 1971, another war between India and Pakistan seemed inevitable because of the intensification of the independence movement in erstwhile East Pakistan.[29] On November 22, 1971, 10 days before the start of a full-scale war, four Pakistani Air Force (PAF) F-86 Sabre jets attacked Indian and Mukti Bahini positions near the international border. Three of the four PAF Sabres were shot down by IAF's Folland Gnats.[30] On December 3, India formally declared war against Pakistan following massive preemptive strikes by the PAF against Indian Air Force installations in Srinagar, Ambala, Sirsa, Halwara and Jodhpur. However the plan failed as the IAF had anticipated such a move and no major losses were suffered.[31] The Indian Air Force was quick to respond to Pakistani air strikes, following which the PAF carried out mostly defensive sorties.[32] Within the first two weeks, the IAF had carried out almost 2,000 sorties over East Pakistan and also provided close air support to the advancing Indian Army.[33] IAF also assisted the Indian Navy in its operations against the Pakistani Navy and Maritime Security Agency in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea. On the western front, the IAF destroyed more than 29 Pakistani tanks, 40 APCs and a railway train during the Battle of Longewala.[34] The IAF undertook strategic bombing of West Pakistan by carring out raids on oil installations in Karachi, the Mangla Dam and a gas plant in Sindh.[35] Similar strategy was also deployed in East Pakistan and as the IAF achieved complete air superiority on the eastern front, the ordnance factories, runways, and other vital areas of East Pakistan were severely damaged.[36] By the time Pakistani forces surrendered, the IAF claimed that 94 PAF aircraft, including 54 F-86 Sabres.[37] The IAF had flown over 6,000 sorties[33] on both East and West fronts; including sorties by transport aircraft and helicopters.[33] Towards the end of the war, IAF's transport planes dropped leaflets over Dhaka urging the Pakistani forces to surrender, demoralising Pakistani troops in East Pakistan.[38]
In 1984, India launched Operation Meghdoot to capture the Siachen Glacier in the contested Kashmir region.[39] IAF's Mi-8, Chetak and Cheetah helicopters airlifted hundreds of Indian troops to Siachen.[40] Launched on April 13, 1984, this military operation was unique because of Siachen's inhospitable terrain and climate. The military action was successful, given the fact that under a previous agreement, neither Pakistan nor India had stationed any personnel in the area. The Indian forces, facing no opposition, took control over most of the heights on the glacier.[41]
On May 20, 1999, the Indian Air Force was called in to provide close air support to the Indian Army at the height of the ongoing Kargil conflict.[42] Because of Kashmir's high altitude and rigid terrain, the IAF initially expressed its reservations to deploy the slow-moving Mil Mi-8/17 helicopters which had a service ceiling of 10,000 feet.[43] These concerns materialised when the Pakistani forces shot down an IAF Mi-8 helicopter and two fighter jets, MiG-21 and MiG-27, that had reportedly strayed into Pakistan's airspace.[44] After the initial setbacks, the IAF deployed the Mirage 2000 which not only had better defense equipment compared to the MiGs, but also gave IAF the ability to carry out aerial raids at night. The Mirages successfully targeted enemy camps and logistic bases in Kargil and within days, their supply lines were severely disrupted.[45] The IAF also deployed its radars and the MiG-29 fighter jets in vast numbers to keep check on Pakistani military movements across the border.[46] The MiG-29s were also used extensively to provide fighter escort to the Mirage 2000. At the height of the conflict, the IAF was conducting over forty sorties daily over the Kargil region.[47] The IAF's operations in Kargil not only boosted the morale of the Indian Army, but also paved the way for the early recapture of Muntho Dhalo and Tiger Hill.[48] By July 26, the Indian forces had successfully liberated Kargil from Pakistani forces and Islamist militants.[49] On August 10, 1999, IAF MiG-21s intercepted a Pakistan Navy Breguet Atlantic which was flying over the disputed region of Sir Creek. The aircraft was shot down killing all 16 Pakistani Navy personnel on board.[50] India claimed that the Atlantic was on a mission to gather information on IAF air defence,[51] a charge emphatically rejected by Pakistan which argued that the unarmed aircraft was on a training mission.[52]
Since late 1990s, the Indian Air Force has been modernising its fleet to counter challenges in the new century. The fleet size of the IAF has decreased during this period because of the retirement of older aircraft. Still, India maintains the fourth largest air force.[53] As new aircraft enter service and numbers recover, the IAF plans to have a fleet of 42 squadrons.[54]
[edit] Structure of the IAF
The President of India is the Supreme Commander of all Indian armed forces and by virtue of that fact is the notional Commander of the Air Force. India's Ministry of Defence under the Defence Minister oversees the Air Force, by way of direct civilian leadership.[55] The Prime Minister and the National Security Council provide indirect leadership by shaping government security policy. A Chief of the Air Staff with the rank of Air Chief Marshal commands Air Headquarters and provides military leadership. He is assisted by six officers: a Vice Chief of the Air Staff, a Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, the Air Officer in Charge of Administration, the Air Officer in Charge of Personnel, the Air Officer in Charge of Maintenance, and the Inspector General of Flight Safety.[56] In January 2002, the government conferred the rank of Marshal of the Air Force on Arjan Singh making him the first and only Five Star rank officer with the Indian Air Force and ceremonial chief of the air force.[57]
[edit] Commands and structure
The Indian Air Force is divided into five operational and two functional 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 center for primary flight training is located at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, 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, Andhra Pradesh (also the location for helicopter training). Technical schools are found at a number of other locations.
Operational Commands
| Functional Commands
|
[edit] Bases
The IAF operates over sixty air bases, with more being built or planned.[58] Western Air Command is the largest Air Command. It operates sixteen air bases from Punjab to Uttar Pradesh. Eastern Air Command operates fifteen Air bases in Eastern and North-eastern India. Central Air Command operates seven Air Bases in Madhya Pradesh and surrounding states of central India. Southern Air Command, a strategically important Air command, in line with India's latest doctrine of protecting the vital shipping routes. It operates nine Air bases in Southern India and two in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. South Western Air Command is the front line of defence against Pakistan, this important Command operates twelve air bases in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. India also operates the Farkhor Air Base in Tajikistan
[edit] 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.[59][60]
[edit] Squadrons
Squadrons are the field units and formations attached to static locations. Thus, a Flying Squadron is a sub-unit of an air force station which carries out the primary task of the IAF. All fighter squadrons are headed by a Commanding Officer with the rank of Wing Commander. Some Transport squadrons and Helicopter Units are headed by a Commanding Officer with the rank of Group Captain.
Within this formation structure, IAF has several service branches for day-to-day operations. They are:[61]
Flying Branch
| Technical Branch
| Ground Branch
|
[edit] IAF personnel
The IAF has a strength of 170,000 personnel. Its rank structure is based on that of the Royal Air Force.[2] 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. The current Chief of the Air Staff is Air Chief Marshal P.V.Naik, appointed on May 1, 2009, following the retirement of Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major.[62]
[edit] 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 16½ and 19 and have passed high school graduation, can apply at the Intermediate level.[63] 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.[64] 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.[65] 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.[66] At the time of application, all applicants must be single.[67] The IAF selects candidates for officer training from these applicants. After completion of training, candidate are commissioned as Flying Officers.
| Ranks of the Indian Air Force- Officer Ranks | |||||||||||
| Shoulder |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Sleeve |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Rank | Marshal of the Air Force¹ | Air Chief Marshal | Air Marshal | Air Vice Marshal | Air Commodore | Group Captain | Wing Commander | Squadron Leader | Flight Lieutenant | Flying Officer | Pilot Officer2 |
| |||||||||||
[edit] Airmen
The duty of an airman in the Indian Air Force 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.[68]
The recruitment of personnel below officer rank is conducted through All India Selection Tests and Recruitment Rallies. All India Selection Tests are conducted among 14 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 Centers for their respective commands.[68]
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.[68]
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.[68]
| Ranks of the Indian Air Force - Enlisted Ranks | ||||||||
| Junior Commissioned Officer | Enlisted | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shoulder |  |  |  | Arm |  |  |  |  |
| Sleeve |  |  |  | |||||
| Rank | Master Warrant Officer | Warrant Officer | Junior Warrant Officer | Sergeant | Corporal | Leading Aircraftsman | Aircraftsman | |
[edit] 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.
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 technical work. More than 250 different designations exist.
[edit] Land-Based Air Defence
- Isayev SA-3 Goa:[69][70] The Indian Air Force is considering upgrading its Pechora SA-3 missiles with Polish help whilst it waits for the Akash. According to Janes Missiles and Rockets (December 2005), the IAF would like to conduct the Newa-SCM upgrade package upgrade to 20 S-125M Pechora-CC systems, using primarily the Tatra 8x8 chassis, which is licence-built in India. Installation on specially adapted heavy equipment trailers or Tatra 8x8 vehicles was studied at the request of the Indian Air Force. It incorporates a new ZNO-X digital transmitter/receiver block developed by the Przemyslowy Instytut Telekomunikacji (PIT) to replace the original magnetron-based hardware. The unit uses digital technology, including digital frequency synthesis, and has automatic built-in test facilities. While the ZNO-X is an expensive upgrade, it significantly improves system performance. Most of the upgrade work would be done in India, although the core elements of the upgrade would be delivered from Poland.Pechora SAM will be phased out by 2012.[71] As of 2009, no firm SA-3 upgrade program has been signed for.
- SA-8 Gecko[69][70]
- SA-10 Grumble/S-300[72]. Reportedly 6 batteries were purchased in August 1995
- SA-16 Gimlet - MANPAD[73]
[edit] Aircraft inventory
The Indian Air Force has a strength of over 1,915 (combat and non-combat) aircraft.[2] Most are of Soviet/Russian origin. The Air Force also operates some aircraft from Britain and France. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited produces some of the Russian and British aircraft in India under licence. The exact number of aircraft in service with the Indian Air Force cannot be determined with precision from open sources. Various reliable sources provide notably divergent estimates for a variety of high-visibility aircraft.[74]
[edit] Fighter and multi-role combat aircraft
These aircraft are primarily for air defence and air superiority purposes. However, most of them have significant strike and close air support capabilities. The Sukhoi Su-30MKI is the IAF's prime air superiority fighter. The Su-30K variant was first acquired in 1996. That year, the IAF signed a US$1.6 billion contract with Russia for the supply of 5 Su-30MKIs and the technology transfer and license to manufacture 1 Su-30MKIs by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.[75] The two-seat, multi-role fighter has a maximum speed of 2500 km/h (Mach 2.35) and a service ceiling of 20,000 meters. With one mid-air refueling, it can travel as far as 8000 km, making it a suitable platform to deliver strategic weapons.[76] In 2007, the IAF spent US$700 million to upgrade its remaining 10 Su-30Ks and 8 SU-30MKs to MKI Std variant[77] and signed a contract for the supply of 4additional MKIs with Russia.[78][79]
The MiG-29 (NATO: Fulcrum) is the IAF's dedicated air superiority fighter.[76] It has a top speed of 2,445 km/h (Mach 2.3) and is armed with a 30 mm cannon along with R-60 & R-27 R missiles. The IAF began deploying MiG-29s in 1984, becoming the second air force to do so.[80]. Since their induction, the IAF's MiG-29s have undergone a series of upgrades including more efficient and powerful radar (Zhuk-ME), weapons system, and engines.[81]
Mirage 2000s, capable of flying at 2,500 km/h (Mach 2.35), are the IAF's premier multirole fighter jet. These aircraft can carry a wide range of weaponry including two 30 mm integral cannon, two Matra Super 530D medium-range missiles, two R550 Magic close combat missiles and various ground attack munitions.[82]
Since 1963, over 450 MiG-21 combat aircraft have served in the IAF.[83][84] Most of these MiGs have been upgraded since induction. In 1996, India signed a US$300 million deal with Russia to upgrade 125 MiG-21 Bis,[85] and a multi-million dollar deal was awarded to Israel's Elta for upgrading the avionics of the MiGs.[86] Because of their frequent crashes, the MiG-21s have been dubbed flying coffins by the media.[87] As of 2007, about 250 MiG-21s remain in service with the Indian Air Force and are planned to be replaced by the indigenously built HAL Tejas starting 2010. IAF has had problems in aircraft maintenance with many crashes in recent years.[88] During the 2005-09 period, 32 MiG series fighters in service with the IAF crashed, resulting in the death of five pilots.[89]
[edit] Strike, attack and close support aircraft
Squadrons of Jaguar (known as the Shamsher in Indian service) and MiG-27 aircraft serve as the IAF's primary ground attack force.[76] The twin-engine Jaguar IB, with a top speed of Mach 1.6, is capable of carrying nuclear weapons. The IAF has 100 Jaguar IS and 8 maritime strike Jaguar IM aircraft. The single-seat MiG-27 carries one GSh-6-30 six-barreled 30 mm cannon, 4000 kg of general-purpose ordnance, SPPU-22 and SPPU-6 gun pods, and various guided air-to-surface missiles. In January 2009, India successfully completed the upgrade programs on the Air Force's MiG-27 ground attack variants.[90] DRDO carried out the avionics upgrades on the fighter aircraft. In the upgraded MiG-27s, the avionics system is built around a modular mission computer termed Core Avionics Computer (CAC). The upgraded ground attack fighters are equipped with Inertial Navigation and Global Positioning System (INGPS) providing accurate navigation during aircraft sorties.[90] To provide more accuracy to the aircraft's weapon systems, accurate ranging sensors such as Laser Designator Pod (LDP) and Laser Ranger and Marked Target Seeker (LRMTS) have been integrated in it also.[90] To improve situational awareness of the pilot during air combat, a digital map generator has been integrated along with a digital video recording system, which helps in mission analysis and debrief support.[90]
[edit] Airborne Early Warning aircraft
In 2004, the IAF ordered 3 IAI Phalcon Airborne Early Warning radar system from Israel Aerospace Industries,[91] which is considered to be the most advanced AEW&C system in the world.[92] The air force will use 3 newly acquired Ilyushin Il-76 Phalcons as the platform for this radar. In May 2008, India appears to have ordered an additional three Phalcon radar-equipped IL-76s from Israel,[93] pushing up the value of the deal from US$1.1 to 1.5 billion. An Indian defense delegation headed by Defense Secretary Vijay Singh, visited Israel in November 2008 to discuss the purchase of the planes and missiles from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). It has been reported that India has placed a follow-up order for 3 more Phalcon radar equipped IL-76 from Israel at a cost of $1.5 billion, pushing the total number to be acquired up to 6.[93] The first Phalcons arrived in India on May 25, 2009 and are expected to be commissioned into service by 2010.[94] IAF Air Chief said that it would take a year and a half to get each and every combat plane in IAF to link with Phalcon.
[edit] Transport aircraft
The IAF operates 25 Ilyushin Il-76s for military transport duties such as heavy lift at all operational levels. The Il-76 MD is a strategic air-lifter with a payload of 95,000 lb and a range of over 5,000 km (2,700 nm; 3,100 statute miles). In 2003, the IAF orderd 6 IL-78MKI aircraft from Uzbekistan[95] and are fitted with aerial refueling pods from Israel.[96] India took delivery of the tankers in 2004.[97]
IAF has a fleet of 64 Avro 748 which has a payload of 5,136 kg (11,323 lb) and has a range of 1,715 km (926 nm; 1,066 mi). The air force also operates a fleet of 94 twin-engined turboprop Antonov An-32 and 73 Dornier Do 228 utility aircraft. In an effort to infuse fresh life into its transport fleet, the Indian Air Force will begin an upgrade programme for its Antonov An-32s and Dornier Do 228s in 2009.[98]
[edit] Training aircraft
The HPT-32 Deepak is IAF's basic flight training aircraft for cadets.[99] Developed during the late 1970s, it has been in service with the IAF since 1984.[100]
The IAF uses the HAL HJT-16 Kiran mk.I for intermediate flight training of cadets, while the HJT-16 Kiran mk.II provides Stage II flight training.[101][102] In 2004, the IAF placed an order for 66 BAE Hawk Mk 132 Advanced Jet Trainers in a deal worth over 1 billion GBP. Deliveries began in November, 2007 and induction in February, 2008. Pilot instructors and engineers were trained in the UK, and the aircraft is scheduled to replace the mk.II. HAL is developing the HJT-36 Sitara to replace the Kiran mk.I.
[edit] Helicopters
An important objective of the IAF is to support ground troops by providing air cover and by transporting men and essential commodities across the battlefield. For this purpose the Air Force maintains a fleet of helicopters. Helicopters in service with the IAF are:
| Light Utility | Medium Utility | Heavylift | Attack |
[edit] Unmanned aerial vehicles
The primary role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is to provide aerial surveillance and reconnaissance. The IAF operates IAI Malat built Searcher II and Heron UAVs.[103][104] Israel Aircraft Industries and Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE). India's leading unmanned aerial vehicle research agency are also jointly developing three new UAVs.
UAVs can also be used as a pilot-less target aircraft. HAL Lakshya, indigenously developed pilotless target aircraft, was inducted into the IAF in July 2005.[105] Another UAV, the HAL Nishant Remote Piloted Vehicle (RPV) has also been developed, with an endurance of over 3 hours.[106] The UAV can be used to carry out ground attacks and aerial surveillance.
[edit] Ongoing expansion
[edit] Future aircraft
As of 2008, the Indian Air Force plans to induct 126 multi-role combat aircraft (with an option for an additional 74 aircraft), 280 Su-30MKI air superiority fighters (Ordered at cost of US$8.4 billion, 120 are already in service with the IAF), 220 HAL Tejas, 47 SEPECAT Jaguar combat aircraft. Additionally, the Indian Air Force has signed contracts for 66 BAE Hawk Mk.132 trainers (deliveries underway) , 80+40 combat helicopters, 3 new Long Range UAVs, 6 mid-air refueling planes, 225+ HJT-36 Sitara Intermediate Jet Trainer aircraft and some additional medium-range transport aircraft.
The Indian Air Force began the upgradation of its MiG-29 fleet in 2007.[107] India awarded Russia a US$965 million contract to upgrade its multi-role MiG-29 into MiG-35 warplanes, on Monday March 10, 2008. According to the deal, Russia will re-arm the twin-engined MiG-29s with air-to-air missiles, and the upgraded MiGs will feature increased fuel capacity and state-of-the-art avionics.
[edit] Confirmed sales
In early 2008, the IAF signed a deal to acquire 6 C-130J Super Hercules, modified for special mission roles, for US$1.06 billion.[108] Lockheed Martin is expected to deliver the planes in 2011.[109][110] In December 2008, India and Russia inked a deal for the supply of 80 Mi-17V-5 (also known as Mi-171) medium lift helicopters at a cost of US$1.2 billion. The two countries had earlier negotiated a price of $650 million, but early in 2008 Russia asked for a revision of the contract price. Russia is expected to deliver the Mi-171 to the IAF in 2010.[111][112] The deal also envisages a US$405 million "offset" obligation by Russia. The new choppers, which have an 18,000 ft operational ceiling, will replace 50 Mi-8s currently in service with the IAF, some of which are over 35 years old, and boost IAF's capability to support high-altitude posts in Siachen and Ladakh sectors. The helicopter will come with the circuitry and hard points to carry weapons.
[edit] Under procurement process
Because of delays in inducting the indigenous HAL Tejas,[113] the IAF issued an Request of Intent (RoI) for the procurement of 126 multi-role combat aircraft to replace around 250 Cold War-era MiG-21 it operates. Russian MiG-35, French Rafale, European Eurofighter Typhoon, Swedish Gripen and the US F-16IN entered the competition to win the contract worth approximately $10 billion. Besides the F-16s, the US has also offered the sale of Boeing's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.[114] In May 2009, the IAF picked Airbus A330 multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) over Russia's Ilyushin Il-78 as the future tanker for the air force. The deal is worth approximately US$1 billion.[115] On May 26, 2009, the Indian Ministry of Defense invited bids for 22 combat helicopters in a deal worth US$2 billion. Companies which have expressed their interest in the tender include — Russia's Kamov and Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant, Europe's AgustaWestland and Eurocopter and United States' Bell Helicopter and Boeing.[116] At the same time, India sent requests for proposals for 15 heavy lift helicopters.[117] Boeing and Sikorsky Aircraft are expected to bid for the order.[116] On June 15, 2009, the IAF announced that it was interested in purchasing about 10 C-17 Globemaster III tactical military transport aircraft. The IAF will be sending a proposal to the Indian Defense Ministry to acquire these aircraft through US Government's Foreign Military Sales (FMS) route.[118] A tender for supply of 317 light helicopters will be floated by Ministry of Defence combining the requirements of Indian Air force (125) and Indian Army (197). Unnamed government official stated that Letters of Interest (LOI) have been sent to Kamov, Bell, Augusta Westland and Eurocopter. In February 2008, Bell withdrew from the race, citing differences in offset clause with the Government of India.[119] HAL has also recently joined the race with its Light Observation Helicopter (LOH). Although it is still on the drawing board, HAL officials seem to be confident to deliver in time.[120]
[edit] Under development
HAL initiated the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme in 1983 to develop a replacement aircraft for IAF's ageing MiG-21. After development during the 80s and 90s the first flight occurred in 2001. The aircraft has since been christened HAL Tejas. The IAF plans to induct 220 Tejas aircraft. It has ordered 28 limited production aircraft.[121] These aircraft are expected to enter service in 2010.
In October 2007, India and Russia signed a pact to develop a Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft.[122] The Indian version will be a two-seater, air superiority fighter.[123] Another agreement was signed between India's Hindustan Aeronautics and Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) in December 2008 which detailed the joint development and production the aircraft.[124] Work on the program will start by mid-2009 and the program is expected to be completed by 2017.[125] During this period, these companies will form a joint-venture for the development of a Multirole Transport Aircraft, which will replace the IAF's ageing fleet of Antonov An-32s. Both HAL and UAC will invest US$300 million each on the program.[126]
In 2004, Defence Research and Development Organisation revived the Airavat Project, which was India's first attempt in developing an indigenous AEW aircraft.[127] A $210 million deal signed with Brazil's Embraer in 2008 for the supply of three Embraer EMB-145 regional jets.[128] India has sent a request for proposal to six vendors for the supply of Active Array Antenna Unit (AAAU) and various other sub-systems. These vendors include Israel's Elta, the European consortium EADS, France's Thales, Sweden's SAAB Erikson and the United State's Raytheon and Northrop Grumman.
HAL has developed HAL HJT-36 Sitara for the IAF which carried out its maiden test flight in 2003. These aircraft are scheduled to replace the aging HJT-16 Kiran mk.I as intermediate jet trainer. The company is developing an Attack Helicopter for the IAF based on HAL Dhruv. It is being designed to fit into an anti-infantry and anti-armour role and will be capable to operate from altitudes an 6,500 metre.[129] First flight of HAL LCH (Light Combat Helicopter) is expected in 2009.[130]
[edit] Aerospace Command
The IAF is setting up an aerospace command. This command will leverage space technology including satellites. The command will be utilised by all the three services of the Indian armed forces and also for civilian purposes by ISRO.[131][132] On October 22, 2001, ISRO launched the Technology Experiment Satellite (TES). Its onboard 1-metre resolution camera was the testbed for Indian space based imagery intelligence.[133] ISRO launched follow-up military satellite CARTOSAT-2A on 28 April, 2008.[134] It carries a panchromatic camera (PAN) with a resolution less than 1-metre but lacks night time and cloudy weather observation capability.[135] ISRO launched a sophisticated radar-imaging satellite on 20 April 2009 called RISAT-2.[136] It is capable of imaging in all-weather conditions and has a resolution of one metre.[137] ISRO has denied that the spacecraft is spy satellite;[138] however, experts believe that the satellite will allow India's security agencies to monitor military activities and movements of suspected terrorists in neighboring countries[137] as well as enable the IAF to carry out precise strikes against targets like terrorist training camps.[139]
[edit] Surface to Air Missile Systems
- Barak SAM - India and Israel have agreed to expand their missile development cooperation with a longer-range version of their extended-range Barak ship defense system for the Indian Air Force.[140]
- Trishul(Trident): Development of Trishul is complete. It has met the IAF requirements during its various developmental flight trials. DRDO is presently in dialogue with IAF for possible induction.[141] Frontier India reports that Indian Air force is considering to induct small quantity to meet partial requirement of LLQRM (Low Level Quick Reaction Missile) System.[142]. However it is not known if IAF has placed a formal order of Trishul SAM System.
- SPYDER (Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby): In June 2007, India signed a $250 million to purchase SPYDER mobile air defense missiles from Israel.[143] The two countries signed an additional $4 billion deal for the joint-development of a medium range surface-to-air missiles.[144] However, the procurement of SPYDER missiles was delayed because of an ongoing investigation against Israel Aerospace Industries and RAFAEL by Indian intelligence agencies for its alleged kickbacks in the Barak-I deal with the Indian Navy.[145] In August 2008, a $2.5 billion deal was signed by India and Israel to develop an advanced version of the SPYDER.[146]
- Maitri LLQRM (Low Level Quick Reaction Missile): DRDO is in talks with MBDA to develop Maitri LLQRM for Army, Air force and Navy. Sources said that DRDL is preparing feasibility report and is awaiting formal clearance from defence ministry.[147][148][149]
- Akash: Indian Air force has approved the induction of Akash Missile System and had initiated the process of inducting the system. Akash has successfully demonstrated its performance through number of flight tests.[142][150] DRDO and IAF jointly began a ten day intensive trial of Akash on December 13, 2007 aimed at making IAF familiar with the system.[151] Defence News reports that IAF has already ordered two units (squadrons) of Akash which are likely to be inducted by 2009.[150]
[edit] Surface to Surface Missiles
- Prithvi II: 250 km Prithvi-II Ballistic Missile is under IAF service which could be used to target airfields, command and control centers etc.[152][153]
[edit] Air to Surface Missiles
- DRDO- NPO Mashinostroeyenia Brahmos- Air launched version under Development
[edit] See also
 | Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Indian Air Force |
- Indian Armed Forces
- India in World War II
- Surya Kiran, Indian Air Force aerobatic team
- Sarang, Indian Air Force Helicopter formation display team
- Indian Naval Air Arm
[edit] Footnotes
- ^ "The IAF Motto". Official Website. Webmaster IAF - Air Headquarters. http://indianairforce.nic.in/show_page.php?pg_id=132. Retrieved 2009-04-07.
- ^ a b c Cordesman & Kleiber 2006, p. 24
- ^ "Strength of the IAF". Official Website. Webmaster IAF - Air Headquarters. http://indianairforce.nic.in/show_page.php?pg_id=13. Retrieved 2009-07-10.
- ^ Air Force Act, 1950. Ministry of Law & Justice. http://indiacode.nic.in/rspaging.asp?tfnm=195045.
- ^ "CLAUSE 4.—(Relations between Royal Air Force and Indian Air Force, and attachment of personnel.)". HC Deb 03 April 1933 vol 276 cc1473-501. HANSARD 1803–2005. http://hansard.millbanksystems.com/commons/1933/apr/03/clause-4-relations-between-royal-air. Retrieved 2009-04-08.
- ^ "History of the IAF". Official Website. Webmaster IAF - Air Headquarters. http://indianairforce.nic.in/show_page.php?pg_id=98. Retrieved 2009-04-07.
- ^ a b c Bedi, Sanjeev (Summer 2008). "Strategic Role of Air Power". Air Power Journal (Center for Air Power Studies) 3 (2): 27–45. http://www.aerospaceindia.org/Journals/Summer%202008/Sanjeev%20Bedi.pdf. Retrieved 2009-04-08.
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- Cordesman, Anthony H.; Kleiber, Martin (2006). The Asian Conventional Military Balance in 2006: Overview of major Asian Powers. Center for Strategic & International Studies. 48. http://www.csis.org/media/csis/pubs/060626_asia_balance_powers.pdf.
- Dixit, Jyotindra Nath (2002). India-Pakistan in War & Peace. Routledge. 501. ISBN 9780415304726. http://books.google.com/books?id=XnzRttnqExUC&client=firefox-a.
- Europa Publications (2005). Far East and Australasia 2003. Europa Publications. 1538. ISBN 9781857431339. http://books.google.com/books?id=LclscNCTz9oC.
- Ganguly, Sumit; Kapur, S. Paul (2008). Nuclear Proliferation in South Asia (illustrated ed.). Taylor & Francis. Xii; 251. ISBN 9780415440493. http://books.google.com/books?id=fAgIdEtTYQgC.
- Gupta, Amit (1997). Building an arsenal: the evolution of regional power force structures (Illustrated ed.). Greenwood Publishing Group. xi; 217. ISBN 9780275957872. http://books.google.com/books?id=illLSaObgL0C&client=firefox-a.
- Ives, Jack D. (2004). Himalayan perceptions: Environmental change and the well-being of mountain peoples (Illustrated ed.). Routledge. xxi; 271. ISBN 9780415317986. http://books.google.com/books?id=q516Lo4OBwwC.
- International Institute for Strategic Studies (2002). The Military Balance 2002/2003 (Map ed.). International Institute for Strategic Studies. ISBN 9780198516729.
- Jones, Aubrey (1985). Britain's economy: the roots of stagnation (illustrated ed.). Cambridge University Press. ISBN 9780521308168. http://books.google.com/books?id=kjk8AAAAIAAJ.
- Jones, Owen Bennett (2003). Pakistan: Eye of the Storm (2, illustrated, revised ed.). Yale University Press. 328. ISBN 9780300101478. http://books.google.com/books?id=ONZpltd6UZ8C.
- Kainikara, Sanu (2007). Red Air: Politics in Russian Air Power. Universal Publishers. ISBN 9781581129830. http://books.google.com/books?id=DKSUKwBk5wIC.
- Kapur, S. Paul (2007). Dangerous deterrent: nuclear weapons proliferation and conflict in South Asia (Annotated ed.). Stanford University Press. 280. ISBN 9780804755498. http://books.google.com/books?id=6Qbovlt-eZ4C.
- Karthikeyan, K.R.; Gupta; Sendilkumar, R.; Jaganathan, D. (2008). A Textbook of Agricultural Extension Management. Atlantic Publishers & Distributors. v; 192. ISBN 9788126908813. http://books.google.com/books?id=Vza8kSHGS90C.
- Khan, J.A. (2004). Air Power and Challenges to IAF. APH Publishing. xxxii; 361. ISBN 9788176485937. http://books.google.com/books?id=Na-V9H0dbrgC&client=firefox-a.
- Lyon, Peter (2008). Conflict Between India and Pakistan: An Encyclopedia (illustrated ed.). ABC-CLIO. ISBN 9781576077122. http://books.google.com/books?id=vLwOck15eboC.
- Massey, Reginald (2005). Azaadi!. Abhinav Publications. ISBN 9788170174691. http://books.google.com/books?id=fkWcmnro4fkC.
- Pradhan, R.D. (1999). Debacle to revival: Y.B. Chavan as Defence Minister, 1962-65. Orient Blackswan. xii; 316. ISBN 9788125014775. http://books.google.com/books?id=9vDvpB_sqB0C&client=firefox-a.
- Pradhan, R. D.; Chavan, Yashwantrao Balwantrao (2007). 1965 War, the Inside Story: Defence Minister Y.B. Chavan's Diary of India-Pakistan War. Atlantic Publishers & Distributors. xviii; 141. ISBN 9788126907625. http://books.google.com/books?id=ymYCJQjEGBUC&client=firefox-a.
- Praval, Karam Chand (1975). India's Paratroopers (A History of the Parachute Regiment of India). Leo Cooper, London. ISBN 9780850521849.
- Shiva, Vandana (2005). India divided: diversity and democracy under attack. Seven Stories Press. 191. ISBN 9781583225400. http://books.google.com/books?id=yoj2SmTZIaoC.
- Sisodia, N.S.; Bhaskar, Chitrapu Uday (2005). Emerging India: security and foreign policy perspectives. Bibliophile South Asia. xx; 376. ISBN 9788186019511. http://books.google.com/books?id=ykZKWATQgcoC&client=firefox-a.
- Sisson, Richard; Rose, Leo E. (1991). War and Secession: Pakistan, India, and the Creation of Bangladesh (revised ed.). University of California Press. ISBN 9780520076655. http://books.google.com/books?id=zYdDnRN8QIoC.
- Thomas, Raju G.C. (1996). India's Security Environment: Towards the Year 2000. DIANE Publishing. iv; 33. ISBN 9781428913899. http://books.google.com/books?id=MYm0hnXJYmgC&client=firefox-a.
- Warikoo, K. (2009). Himalayan Frontiers of India: Historical, Geo-Political and Strategic Perspectives (Illustrated ed.). Taylor & Francis. xv; 240. ISBN 9780415468398. http://books.google.com/books?id=PvWp8_POzrEC&client=firefox-a.
- Wilson, Stewart (2002). North American F-86 SABRE (Illustrated ed.). Wilson Media Pty, Limited. 64. ISBN 9781876722050. http://books.google.com/books?id=_IcBAAAACAAJ.
[edit] External links
- Official website of The Indian Air Force
- Indian Air Force on bharat-rakshak.com
- Global Security article on Indo-Pakistani Wars
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List of aircraft of the Indian Air Force
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Indian Air Force | ||||||||||||
|
The Indian Air Force, often abbreviated as the IAF, is the world's fourth largest air force after those of the United States, Russia and China; and operates more than 780 combat and 1400 non-combat aircraft (including UAVs).Here is a list of those aircraft which have served the IAF, and also those which are currently or are expected to enter service:
Contents[hide] |
[edit] Current Aircraft
}
| Aircraft | Origin | Type | Versions | In service[1][2] | Trainers/Attack[1][2] | Squadrons[1][2] | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
[edit] Fighter aircraft | |||||||
 Sukhoi Su-30MKI Flanker-H |  Russia India | Multi Role Air Superiority Fighter | Su-30MKI Flanker-H | @105 | 0 | 2,8,20,24,30,31 | Total of around 280 (50+140+40+(Additional 50 to be ordered, as per ForceIndia) will be procured/produced/assembled by 2015-2016. |
 Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-29 Fulcrum | Russia | Air Superiority Fighter | Mig-29S | 54 | 8 | 28, 47, 223 | All 62 MiG-29S to be upgraded to "SMT" standard.Service life of MiG-29s aircraft will be extended from 25 to 40 years,first deliveries in 2011 and program to be completed by 2014. |
| Dassault Mirage 2000 |  France | Multi Role Fighter | Mirage 2000 H | 40 | 11 | 1, 7, 9 | The fleet of 51 aircraft are to be upgraded to Mirage 2000-5 standards. As of April, 2008, Thales & Dassault are chosen as Upgrade OEMs. Price negotiations and negotiations for missiles may be going on. [3] |
 Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21Bison |  Soviet Union | Intercepter Fighter | MiG-21 Bison | 106 | 14 | 3,4, 21, 23, 32, 51 | 125 MiG-21bis upgraded to "Bison" standard. All MiG-21s to be phased out by 2011 except MiG-21 Bison, which will stay in service up to 2025. |
| MiG-21bis | 48 | 8 | 15, 26 | ||||
| MiG-21M/MF | 72 | 9 | 17, 35 , 37, 101, 108 | ||||
| MiG-21FL | 48 | 6 | MOFTU A, MOFTU B, OCU | ||||
| Aircraft | Origin | Type | Versions | In service[1][2] | Trainers/Attack[1][2] | Squadrons[1][2] | Notes |
[edit] Ground-attack aircraft | |||||||
 Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-27 | Soviet Union | Ground Attack aircraft | MiG-27UPG | <100 | 11 MiG-23UM | 10, 18, 22, 29, 222, TACDE(0.5) | Upgrades completed for 40 a/c( Sqdn 10 and 29). Reports suggest another 40 a/c would be upgraded, including new engines/avionics. [4]. The aircraft should remain in service until 2025.? |
Jaguar GR-1 Shamser Jaguar IS Jaguar IM | France United Kingdom | Ground attack aircraft | Jaguar IS | 104 | 25 | 5, 14, 16, 27, 224 | In all 178, including 20 IS + 17 IT (new builds conform to DARIN-II standards),35 earlier DARIN-1 aircraft lost and had major avionics/systems upgrades completed for 40 older DARIN-I aircraft to DARIN-2, DARIN-3 fit currently being finalized for around 60+ remaining DARIN-I Jaguars. Engine upgrade also being considered for the entire fleet (@120 a/c - in 2 batches of 59 and 61 a/c each), choice between Honeywell F-125 and uprated Rolls Royce Adour variant. [5][6][7] |
| Maritime air support | Jaguar IM+IS+IT | 6 + 4 | 2 | 6 | |||
| | 720 | 94 | 814 APRX | ||||
| Aircraft | Origin | Type | Versions | In service[1][2] | Trainers/Attack[1][2] | Squadrons[1][2] | Notes |
[edit] Trainer Aircraft | |||||||
| HAL HPT-32 Deepak | India | trainer/Primary Jet Trainer(PJT) | HPT-32 | <-70 | Stage 1 training.Expected to be phased out by 2014; replacement to be HAL HTT-40 | ||
 HAL HJT-16 Kiran | India | trainer/Intermediate Jet Trainer(IJT) | HJT-16 | <-84 | Stage 2 training . to be replaced from 2011-12 onwards by the HJT-36 Sitara, 16 of which were ordered in 2003, delaying the project due to Prototype crash-landed. | ||
 BAE Hawk | United Kingdom | trainer/Advanced Jet Trainer(AJT) | Hawk 132 | 23 | Stage 3 training . 66 ordered (24 direct supply( 1 crashed in 2008) + 42 by HAL). New RFP issued in March,'09; 10 locally assembled Hawks were to be delivered by HAL by Mar 2009,seems only 5 will be delivered by end 2009.Reports suggest major spare parts shortage/quality issues. | ||
| | 179 | ||||||
| Aircraft | Origin | Type | Versions | In service[1][2] | Trainers/Attack[1][2] | Squadrons[1][2] | Notes |
[edit] Transport aircraft | |||||||
 Embraer EMB 135 |  Brazil | VIP transport | ECJ-135 Legacy | 5 | Air HQ Comn Sqn | ||
 Boeing 737 |  United States | VIP transport | 737-200 | 2 | Air HQ Comn Sqn | Also used for ELINT, fitted with indigenous equipment developed by the DRDO and manufactured by BEL. Replaced by BBJs as far as VIP transport is concerned. | |
 Boeing Business Jet | United States | VVIP transport | 737-800 | 3 | Air HQ Comn Sqn | AIR FORCE ONE version of India christened Rajdhoot, Rajhans and Rajkamal. All new aircraft operational. | |
 Dornier Do 228 |  Germany India | Light Tactical Transport | Do 228-201 | 40 | 41, TTW, 6 Comm Flts (2 A/c) | built by HAL; Upgrade programme being considered. | |
 Hawker Siddeley HS 748 | United Kingdom | Tactical Transport | HS 748-100 | <64 | 11, 41 'A', 59, 106 'A', 6 Cmd Flts (2 A/c) | Not all operational. A handful of 748s are used for ELINT, fitted with indigenous equipment.To be replaced by the MRTA. | |
 Antonov An-32 Cline | Soviet Union | Tactical Transport | An-32 | 104 | 12, 25'B', 33, 43, 48, 49, PTS, TTW | 15 aircraft crashed/accidents so far. 104 AN-32s will get an upgrade and life extension overhaul from 2009 to 2017,(at a cost of USD$ 397.7/Deal signed with Ukraine on 15/6/09) with an initial lot of 6 a/c being sent to Ukraine and the rest undergoing it at Kanpur BRD. 8 An32's configured for VIP transport. [8] To be replaced by the MRTA. | |
 Ilyushin Il-76 Candid | Soviet Union | Heavy Transport | Il-76 | 24 | 44, 25 'A' | Being Upgraded; 1st Upgraded Il-76 back on 23/3/09. | |
| | 248 | ||||||
| Aircraft | Origin | Type | Versions | In service[1][2] | Squadrons[1][2] | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
[edit] AWACS | ||||||
| IL-76 Phalcon AWACS | Russia Israel | AWACS | Phalcon | 1(+2 on order) | 50 | First AWACS aircraft had been inducted to No 50 sq based in Agra on 28 May 2009.[9] According to the revised delivery schedule, second and third ones now expected in 2010. IAF is keen on building up its Phalcon AWACS fleet to a strength of six. AWACS will enable the IAF to carry out tactical surveillance over a radius of 400 kilometers.[10] |
| | 1 | - | ||||
| Aircraft | Origin | Type | Versions | In service[1][2] | Squadrons[1][2] | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
[edit] Air Tanker Aircraft | ||||||
 Ilyushin Il-78 MKI | Russia/ Israel | IL-76 | IL-78MKI | 6 | No.78 | In 2003, the IAF ordered 6 IL-78MKI aircraft from Uzbekistan[11] and are fitted with aerial refueling pods from Israel.[12] India took delivery of the tankers in 2004.[13] |
| | 6 | - | ||||
| Aircraft | Origin | Type | Versions | In service | Squadrons | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
[edit] Helicopters | ||||||
 HAL Dhruv | India | utility helicopter | Dhruv | 36 | 117, 132, 151 | deliveries underway, additional 54 to be acquired by 2012 (Reports suggest - 38 Utility + 16 armed).[14] |
| India | Attack helicopter | Dhruv WSI | - | - | User trials | |
 Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama | France | utility helicopter | SA 315B Cheetah/Cheetal | 24 + 4 | 114, 131F, 132F | built by HAL/ to be replaced in the near future, evaluation of various types in process. 10 HAL built Cheetal's on order (upgraded Cheetah); 4 delivered on 26/7/09; balance 6 by end Sept, 09/early Oct 09. |
 Aérospatiale SA 316B Alouette III | France | utility helicopter | SA 316B Chetak | 48 | 111, 116, 141SSS F, 142SSS F, HTS | 60 were built by HAL; to be replaced in the near future, evaluation of various types in procress. |
 Mil Mi-8/17 | Soviet Union | transport helicopter | Mi-8 | 102 | 105,109, 110, 112,119, 121, 122F | The 102 Mi 8's are to be replaced by 80 weaponized Mi-17V-5's, for delivery early 2010-2013. The $1.2 Billion deal was signed on 5/12/08. During MAKS 2009 it was revealed that IAF is planning on ordering 40 more Mi-17-V5 helicopters.[15]. Reports also suggest that the Augusta-Westland EH 101 ( 8 VIP + 4 Utility) has been shortlisted for replacing the VIP Mi-8/-17's. |
| Mi-17 | 90+ | 107,118,127, 128, 129, 130, 152, 153 | ||||
 Mil Mi-35 Hind-E | Soviet Union | attack helicopter | Mi-35 | 20 | 104, 125 | upgraded/ 22 replacements being evaluated. RFP issued 25/5/09. |
 Mil Mi-26 Halo | Soviet Union | transport helicopter | Mi-26 | 4 | 126HF | 2 - 3 operational ? / 15 replacements being evaluated. RFP issued 25/5/09. |
| | 328+ | |||||
[edit] Unmanned Air Vehicles | ||||||
 DRDO Nishant | India | Reconnaissance Remotely Piloted Vehicle - RPV | ? | Indian Army has placed an order for 12 Nishant UAVs along with ground support systems. Deliveries underway. | ||
 Lakshya PTA | India | Pilotless Target Aircraft (PTA) | 23+ | surface/ship launched high subsonic reusable aerial target system, remotely piloted from ground. It provides training to the gun/missile crew and to air defence pilots for weapon engagement. | ||
 IAI Harpy | Israel | Fire & Forget Radar Emitter Destroyer | 90 | |||
 IAI Heron | Israel | Heron II | Strategic Multi-Role UAV | 70+ | 16+ more Heron's on order 5/8/09 | |
| Heron I | 4th Generation strategic reconnaissance and surveillance UAV | 50+ | ||||
 IAI Searcher | Israel | Searcher Mk-II | 4th Generation tactical multi-payload UAV | 100+ | ||
| Searcher Mk-I | 3rd Generation Intelligence mini-UAV | 50 | ||||
| | 380+ | |||||
[edit] Future Aircraft
[edit] Combat Aircraft
| Aircraft | Origin | Year | Notes | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HAL Tejas | India | 2012 | 20 aircraft Mk1 with F404 engine(16+4) already on order. Plus, reports suggest 8 more two-seaters ordered (Indian Navy order ???). A Mk 2 with either F414 or Eurojet engines being developed. Eventually to be inducted from end 2012 onwards, total units expected to be @200 aircraft, including two seat versions for IAF and IN. Aircraft to have around 70% Indian content. Primary aims are to replace MiG-21's & MiG 27's in service. The LCA is to be a light air superiority aircraft with significant multirole capabilities, and in flight refuelling. FOC expected around 2011-12, production to continue till 2020 for a minimum of around seven squadrons in service (@ 200 aircraft ). Reports suggest that the Indian Navy has ordered 8 LCA's for Rs 900cr from HAL in Sept 2009. | 140[40 mk1 +100mk2] for air force and around 40 for navy. |
 MRCA |  European Union France Russia Sweden United States | 2014 | India's Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) programme is to acquire 126 ( + 63 on option) Multi-Role aircraft at an estimated cost of $10.24 Billion; the program may be extended to acquire a total of 189 aircraft. Competitors for the bid include F-16 Falcon IN, JAS-39 Gripen NG, MiG-35, Dassault Rafale, F-18 E/F Super Hornet & the Eurofighter Typhoon. The acquisition will give a significant boost to the IAF and make up for the retirement of its older MiG-21's & MiG-27's .Also lockheed has kept an option for IAF to buy F-35's. | 126-189 . |
 FGFA | India Russia | november 2009 | Serious development and funding programme put in place, Reports suggest formal Indo-Russian agreement(HAL-UAC) signed on 23/12/08. First flight of the Russian derivative expected in 2009-10. Being developed from the Russian Su T-50, Tandem-seat variant. [16] Indian Air Force plans for up to 10 Squadrons of the type. Reports suggest that as the Su 30MKI production tapers off in 2015-16, production of the FGFA will start by HAL in 2016 onwards (??) | Unknown . |
 Medium Combat Aircraft | India | 2020 | A 5th Generation aircraft which is under preliminary development. Project proposal accepted, IAF Joint committee began framing specifications on May 4, 2009. Expected to be a Jaguar & Mirage 2000 replacement. | Unknown . |
[edit] Trainers Aircraft | ||||
 HAL HTT-40 | India | 2013-2014 | HTT-40 will replace HAL HPT-32 Deepak. HAL has decided to rope in an international partner for the design and development of the much needed ab initio turbo trainer for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Navy. HAL has sent out a request for information (RFI) to a number of companies that have designed and manufactured basic turbo trainers, including Embraer (for their Tucano), Pilatus (PC-21), Raytheon (T-6 Texan), Finmeccanica (M-311), Grob Aircraft Company (G-120TP) and Korea Aerospace Industries (KT-1).[17] | 200 |
| HAL HJT-36 | India | 2010 ? onwards | The HJT-36 will replace the HJT-16 Kiran in its role of as a trainer (Stage-2) in the Indian Air Force. Final production could be 225+ aircraft, serving both the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy. Custom made engines AL-55I arrived in India from Russia in late December 2008 and is currently undergoing integration with PT-1 (Prototype-1); First test flight with the new Russian engine took place on 9/5/09. | 225+. |
 Advanced Jet Trainer |  Czech Republic United Kingdom Russia Italy Republic of Korea | 2011 ? onwards | Indian Ministry of Defence put out requests for information (RFI) for advanced jet trainers to meet a requirement of 57 new lead-in trainer aircraft, of which the Indian Air Force needs 40 and the Indian Navy, 17.Request for information (RFI) have been send to a number of companies that have designed and manufactured trainers, including BAE Hawk-128 , Yak-130 , Aero Vodochody, Aermacchi M-346, MiG AT and Korea Aerospace Industries (T-50 Golden Eagle).[18] | 40 |
[edit] Transport Aircraft | ||||
 C-130J Super Hercules | United States | 2011 | Six ordered for Special Operations. Options for 6 more. | 06. |
 Ilyushin/HAL Tactical Transport Aircraft | India Russia | 2015 | First flight expected in 2011. Irkut has pulled out of the project after an industry realignment and has been replaced by Ilyushin. Total cost of development is 600 million US$. The envisaged requirement is for 100 aircraft for the Russian Air Force, 45+ for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and a projected demand of 60 from third countries. The IAF sees the aircraft as a replacement for its ageing fleet of 60-70 An-32/ and Avro HS 748 aircraft. Planned Specs: Maximum takeoff weight: 55,000 kg, Capacity: 88 to 100 paratroopers/passengers, Payload: 18.5 tons. The deal was signed in November 2007 during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Moscow. Rosoboronexport has now identified Ilyushin Aviation Complex as the new prime nodal agency after Irkut pulled out of the project in March 2008. The development and certification of the new aircraft is expected to be completed within six years[19] | 45[20] |
 NAL Saras | India | 2012 ? | Initial order for 15 aircraft and 30 more to be procured. Project delayed as 2nd Prototype crashed on 6/3/09, killing all 3 Test pilots. Project delayed. [21][22] | 48. |
[edit] DRDO AEW&CS | ||||
 DRDO AEW&CS | India Brazil | 2011 - 2012 | 3 AEW&C aircraft on order. Aircraft to have ESM/ SIGINT/ CSM ability. Locally developed by the DRDO using the Embraer ERJ-145 (3 ordered) as the carrier. Intended to act as a vital backup node to the more expensive Phalcons, for an in-depth air defense network. More orders expected but of a more capable derivative, based on a larger aircraft platform. | 3 on order. |
[edit] Air Tanker Aircraft | ||||
 (Speculated picture)Aerial Refueling Tanker | European Union | 2012 onwards | A requirement for six Aerial refuellers either Airbus A330 MRTT or Ilyushin Il-78. Airbus A330 MRTT was shortlisted by IAF because Ilyushin Il-78 was not able to meet the requirements. [23] | Six aircraft to be ordered[24] |
[edit] Helicopters | ||||
 Light Utility helicopter (LUH) | Russia United States India France Germany | 2011 onwards | Indian Armed Forces have a requirement of 384 light utility helicopter to replace its aging fleet of Cheetah and Chetak helicopters. Earlier Ministry of Defense had scrapped a deal in which Eurocopter AS350 was chosen but later some irregularities were found in the selection process. The helicopters were sought only for India Air Force and then the Indian Army and Indian Navy has joined. Since then HAL has also joined the race with its HAL Light Observation Helicopter and the deal was splitted into 187 indigenous light utility helicopter and 197 foreign, that will be fielded in a new competition. [25] The new competition is expected to start soon and Eurocopter will field the military version Eurocopter Fennec in the trials this time. Deliveries of 133 helicopter for the Army and 64 for the Air Force should start by the end of 2010. [26] | 384 |
 AgustaWestland AW101 | United Kingdom Italy | It is a Medium Lift Helicopter/VIP Transport Helicopter. It is one of the contenders for the Indian VIP Helicopters and Medium Lift helicopters. IAF had floated a tender in 2006 for supply of 8 VIP Helicopters (12 person) at the cost of $25 million each and 4 Medium Lift Helicopters (30 person) at the cost of $13 million each to replace Mi-8 Helicopters of VIP Squadron. IAF has concluded helicopter trials of the contenders AgustaWestland AW101 and Sikorsky S-92 helicopters in the period 14-19 January, 2008. IAF found that Sikorsky S-92 failed to meet their requirements. The contract is likely to be signed in 2009. The deliveries will begin in 2010. VIP helicopters are expected to be equipped with state-of-the-art, open-architecture gear for encrypted communications by the VIPs, including the prime minister. | 12. | |
 Attack Helicopter | United States Russia Germany France | Date will be announced | Earlier up to 80 helicopters were projected to complement the existing Mi-25/ 35 attack helicopters, but after considering the development of the indigenous HAL LCH, this number has been reduced to 22. RFI issued/outright purchase. Boeing's AH-64D Apache, Mil's Mi-28, Kamov's Ka-52 and Eurocopter's Tiger are the front-runners for this order. Reports confirm on 24/3/09 that RFP cancelled and a new one would be issued in near future, thereby delaying the procurement plan by @2 years to 2012.[27] | 22. |
 HAL Light Combat Helicopter | India | 2012 | 65 LCH to be delivered to the IAF from 2012 to 2015; Developed from the Dhruv; flight tests now by late 2009(delayed 1 year); FOC end 2011. Reports suggest whole programme delayed by about 1 year as HAL seeks to trim weight further.[28] Developed from the ALH Dhruv. | 65+for IAF. |
 Transport Helicopters | United States Russia | 2011-12 | Indian Air Force has circulated the Request for Information for Heavy Lift Helicopters to the vendors. For this contract, the bidders could include Mil's Mi-26, Boeing's CH-47 Chinook, and Sikorsky's CH-53 Sea Stallion. Indian Air Force has the requirement of 15 such helicopters. | 15. |
[edit] Unmanned Air Vehicles | ||||
 IAI Harop | Israel | 2011 | Indian Air Force announced that it will be inducting the 10 Harop systems purchased for US$100 Million by 2011.[29] | 10 |
 DRDO Rustom | India | Rustom is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) being developed by DRDO for the three services, Indian Army, Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force of the Indian Armed Forces. Rustom is derived from the NAL's LCRA (Light Canard Research Aircraft) developed by a team under the leadership of late Prof.Rustom in the 1980s. Rustom will replace/supplement the Heron UAVs in service with the Indian armed forces. The first low speed taxi trials of the first prototype were carried out on September 22, 2008. | NA. | |
 (Speculated picture)DRDO Pawan | India | This is a short range Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) being developed by ADE lab of DRDO and HAL. Development of the short-range, vehicle-mounted Pawan is expected to cost $33.2 million. Meant to equip Indian army divisions, the Pawan will be comparable in size and capabilities to Israel's Eye View, Hermes 180 and Silver Arrow drones. The 120-kilogram Pawan will have day-and-night surveillance capability, an endurance of five hours and a range of 150 kilometers. ADE plans to build four Pawan prototypes under this development program, with Israel Aircraft Industries electro-optic sensors for the payload and its own stabilizer platform. The engine will be purchased from outside India. | NA. | |
 DRDO Gagan | India | This is a Tactical Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) being developed by ADE lab of DRDO and HAL. The $55.5 million Gagan UAV program will feature development of an advanced version of India's Nishant UAV. The Gagan UAV will have a range of 250 kilometers and an altitude of 6,000 meters. ADE will procure synthetic aperture radar and electro-optic sensors from Israel, and develop its own electronic countermeasure systems. ADE got the funding clearance in May, 2005, and four prototypes will be built within 42 months. | NA. | |
[edit] Historical aircraft
[edit] Fighters
- de Havilland Vampire
- Dassault Ouragan (Toofani)
- Dassault Mystère IV
- Hawker Hunter
- Folland Gnat built by Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) under licence from Folland in the UK
- HAL Ajeet
- Mig-23MF
[edit] Ground attack / Bombers
[edit] Reconnaissance
[edit] Trainers
- HAL HT-2
- PZL TS-11 Iskra: 50 Iskra bis D Polish jet trainer aircraft were bought by India in 1975, then a further 26 in the 1990s. All Iskra aircraft were withdrawn from the IAF by December 16, 2004. [30]
- North American Harvard
- de Havilland Tiger Moth
- Percival Prentice
[edit] Transport aircraft
- Douglas C-47 Dakota
- de Havilland Devon
- Ilyushin Il-14
- de Havilland Canada DHC-3 Otter
- de Havilland Dragonfly
- Fairchild C-119G Flying Boxcar
- Lockheed Super Constellation
- de Havilland Canada DHC-4 Caribou
- Tupolev Tu-124
- Antonov An-12
[edit] Helicopters
[edit] General purpose
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p Indian Air Force Fleet Page Bharat-Rakshak.com.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p Ministry of Defence Press Release about Fighter Aircraft losses for 2004-2008
- ^ France offers air-to-air missiles to India
- ^ MiG-27 fleet upgraded to modern standards
- ^ IB Darin II Jaguar 02
- ^ IB Darin II Jaguar
- ^ Darin2_Cockpit
- ^ http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/After-crash-India-inks-400-million-deal-for-AN-32-fleet-upgrade/articleshow/4668199.cms
- ^ First of IAF AWACS arrives in India
- ^ Air Force starts flight tests of first Phalcon Il-76 airborne early warning system
- ^ "In-flight refuellers boost India's strike capabilities". SiliconIndia. March 4, 2003. http://www.siliconindia.com/shownews/Inflight_refuellers_boost_Indias_strike_capabilities___-nid-18753.html. Retrieved 2009-04-22.
- ^ Mukherjee, Amit (September 29, 2004). "IAF to get 5th IL-78 refueller soon". Times of India. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/IAF_to_get_5th_IL-78_refueller_soon/articleshow/msid-867031,curpg-2.cms. Retrieved 2009-04-22.
- ^ Kopp, Carlo. "The PLA-AF's Aerial Refuelling Programs". Air Power Australia. http://www.ausairpower.net/APA-PLA-Tanker-Programs.html. Retrieved 2009-04-22.
- ^ Cabinet committee's nod for Dhruv makes HAL happy
- ^ http://www.forceindia.net/showfeaturereport3.aspx
- ^ India may test futuristic jets by 2015
- ^ http://www.hindu.com/2009/07/20/stories/2009072057201100.htm
- ^ http://livefist.blogspot.com/2009/09/indias-next-advanced-trainer.html
- ^ http://picasaweb.google.com/mittal.fdk/FutureAircraftsWithIndianAirForce#5169622561296577266
- ^ http://www.deagel.com/Freighters/Il-214_a002064001.aspx
- ^ Lighter version of Saras aircraft to fly out next year
- ^ Third prototype of NAL's Saras to fly out next year
- ^ http://www.hindustantimes.com/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?sectionName=HomePage&id=dade59fe-cce1-467f-9282-c4707edd9c80&Headline=IAF+drops+Russia+from+%241+bn+deal
- ^ [1]
- ^ http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Govt_pares_order_for_foreign_choppers_from_384_to_197/articleshow/3103913.cms
- ^ http://www.domain-b.com/aero/mil_avi/mil_aircraft/20090620_eurocopter.html
- ^ India to Buy 22 Attack Helos for $550M
- ^ Paris Air Show: First flight of HAL`s light combat helicopter in 2008news
- ^ http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NEWS/newsrf.php?newsid=11780
- ^ Swansong of the Iskaras
- ^ The Westland Wapiti in Indian Air Force
- ^ Westland Lysander in Indian Air Force Service
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