What type of fighter jets does India have? This question often arises among aviation enthusiasts and military analysts alike. India, being one of the largest defense spenders in the world, has a diverse fleet of fighter jets that cater to its air force’s requirements. From aging aircraft to the latest generation of fighters, India’s air force boasts a mix of capabilities that can help it maintain air superiority in the region.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates several types of fighter jets, each serving a specific role within the force. Here are some of the key fighter jets in the Indian inventory:
1. MiG-29: Acquired from Russia, the MiG-29 is a twin-engine, all-weather, multirole fighter jet. It has been a staple in the IAF since the late 1980s and is expected to remain in service until the 2040s. The aircraft is equipped with advanced avionics and armaments, making it a formidable opponent in aerial combat.
2. Su-30MKI: Another Russian-made fighter jet, the Su-30MKI, is a twin-engine, two-seater multirole fighter. It is one of the most powerful aircraft in the IAF’s arsenal and is capable of carrying a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons. The Su-30MKI has been instrumental in enhancing the IAF’s air defense capabilities.
3. Rafale: India’s most recent acquisition, the Dassault Rafale, is a French-built multirole fighter jet. The IAF has ordered 36 Rafales, which are expected to be delivered by 2022. The Rafale is a highly maneuverable aircraft with advanced avionics and weaponry, making it a valuable asset for the IAF.
4. Tejas: Developed by India’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), the Tejas is a lightweight, single-engine multirole fighter jet. It is the first indigenous fighter jet to be inducted into the IAF and is expected to replace the aging MiG-21s in the coming years. The Tejas has a modern avionics suite and is capable of performing various roles, including air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance.
5. LCA Navy (Navy Tejas): The LCA Navy is a naval variant of the Tejas fighter jet, designed to operate from aircraft carriers. The Indian Navy has ordered 12 LCA Navy aircraft, which are expected to be delivered by 2023. The LCA Navy will bolster the Indian Navy’s air defense capabilities and provide it with a versatile fighter jet for carrier-based operations.
In addition to these fighter jets, the IAF also operates several other aircraft, such as the Jaguar, Mirage 2000, and MiG-27, which serve various roles, including ground attack and reconnaissance. The Indian Air Force is continuously working on modernizing its fleet and enhancing its capabilities to meet the evolving security challenges in the region.
As India’s defense needs grow, the country is expected to invest in more advanced fighter jets, such as the F-16 and F-35, to further strengthen its air force. The Indian Air Force’s diverse fleet of fighter jets reflects its commitment to maintaining air superiority and ensuring the security of its skies.
