Tejas Aircraft: An Analysis of its Future Role in the Indian Air Force

Introduction

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently evaluating the integration of the LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) Tejas into its fleet. The Tejas, being a product of long-term research and development, holds significant promise. However, its future role in the IAF’s composition remains a topic of debate. In this article, we will analyze the status and potential future of the Tejas in the Indian Air Force's arsenal.

The LCA Tejas

Current Position

As of now, the Tejas is not considered the backbone of the IAF. It is seen more as a multi-role aircraft with capabilities tailored for specific roles rather than a primary fighter. The software and hardware advancements in the last few decades have made other models more potent.

Plan for Upgrades and Future Projects

According to plans, a significant number of LCA Tejas in various configurations will be key fighter aircraft in the IAF. The next generation Advanced Mission Capability Aircraft (AMCA) is expected to become the backbone of the IAF as and when it is inducted into active service.

Strategic Considerations

Past vs. Present

The Tejas program began in 1983, aiming to create an indigenous multirole fighter that could replace the MIG 21 Bison. Initially designed for 1980s requirements, the Tejas was intended to be a lightweight, single-engine aircraft optimized for close-in dogfighting. However, the world has moved on. Modern fighter jets are equipped with advanced stealth technology, high-capacity AESA radars, and highly reliable BVR (Beyond Visual Range) missiles. The Tejas, in its current form, lacks these key attributes.

While the Su-30MKI and Rafale are considered the backbone of the IAF, the Tejas, due to its size and limitations in technology, is not due to its capabilities but its roles within the IAF’s strategic framework.

Why the Tejas is Not Sufficient

The Tejas faces several challenges, including its smaller size and outdated radar and missile systems. The lack of space for modern avionics and BVR missiles makes it less effective in modern combat scenarios. Additionally, its combat radius of 450 km and sortie time of less than one hour have rendered it less competitive compared to more advanced aircraft.

The AMCA, designed to replace the Tejas, is being developed to incorporate the latest technologies, including stealth capabilities and advanced avionics. This aircraft is expected to have a longer combat radius and a greater capacity for modern warfare.

Alternatives and Future Plans

It has been suggested that the Tejas Mk2, which aims to address some of the shortfalls, is still not viable due to the fundamental design issues. A complete redesign would be necessary to make it comparable to modern fighters. HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) has faced significant challenges in delivering even 1980s technology aircraft, and it is ill-equipped to undertake such a massive overhaul.

An alternative approach might be to accelerate the acquisition of other state-of-the-art fighter jets. This could involve investing in high-technology western aircraft and missiles. While this would require a shift away from current partnerships, it could provide India with a more advanced and capable air force in the long run.

India's economy is robust enough to support such an investment. However, it would mean severing relations with Russia, an outcome that is complicated by Russia's declining status as a technological leader.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Tejas lacks the modern technological advancements necessary to be the backbone of the IAF. The AMCA, once it is operational, will take over this role. Meanwhile, the IAF will continue to rely on its existing fleet, including the Su-30MKI, Rafale, and other fighters, all of which play crucial roles in the air force's mission capabilities.

The future of the IAF lies in modernizing its fleet with advanced technology. This includes developing and acquiring the latest fighter jets in the coming years to ensure that the IAF remains a formidable force in the Indian subcontinent and beyond.