MiG-21 bows out: road ahead for IAF's dwindling fighter fleet, Pg18.

Key Highlights:

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) decommissioned its final two MiG-21 squadrons, No 23 (Panthers) and No 3 (Cobras), comprising approximately 36 jets, in Chandigarh on Friday.
• India procured over 700 MiG-21s of different variants since their induction in 1963, including the advanced 'Bison' (BIS) variant.
• The IAF's fighter squadron strength is now at 29, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42, raising concerns about a potential two-front conflict.
• HAL will supply 180 Tejas Mk1A jets to the IAF, including an initial order of 83 jets (worth ₹48,000 crore signed in February 2021) and a subsequent order of 97 jets signed recently.

Detailed Insights:

• The MiG-21s served as the IAF's primary interceptors since 1963 and participated in key conflicts, including the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan and the 1999 Kargil conflict.
• Over 500 MiG-21s have crashed in the past 60 years, resulting in at least 170 pilot fatalities, primarily due to engine issues, despite upgrades to the BIS variant.
• The IAF is also planning to phase out older jets like MiG-29s, Jaguars, and Mirage 2000s by 2035, necessitating the establishment of a robust air defense system.
• India has inducted the Russian S-400 missile systems and developed the indigenous Akashteer air-defense system to bolster its air defense capabilities.
• The LCA Tejas Mk1A deliveries are delayed due to delayed procurement of F404 engines from GE Aerospace and issues with weapons and radar integration.
• The IAF is considering acquiring 114 fighters from a global defense major, with the Dassault Rafale being a frontrunner, some of which may be manufactured in India.
• India also plans to upgrade 84 Su-30MKI fighter jets under the Super-30 program to enhance its existing fleet.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Interceptor: A fighter aircraft designed for defensive air-to-air combat to intercept enemy aircraft.
• Fighter Squadron: A military aviation unit consisting of 16-18 aircraft and their respective flight crews.
• Air Defence System: A combination of weapons, sensors, and command and control systems designed to protect against airborne threats.