- 06 Oct 2022
- ICICIdirect Research
IAF TO HAVE 35-36 FIGHTER JET SQUADRONS
HAL - 4560 Change: -9.20 (-0.20 %)News:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) chief has said that the IAF will have 35-36 fighter jet squadrons by 2030 after addition of 24 new squadrons (two Tejas MK1, four Tejas MK1A, six squadrons each of Tejas MK2, AMCA and MRFA) and phasing out of 15 squadrons (three MiG-21, six Jaguar, three each of upgraded Mirage 2000 and Mig-29) during the period. The plans to get additional 12 Su-30 MKI and 21 MiG-29 has been deferred. He maintains his view that 42 fighter jets squadrons are necessary for the country and it will remain an eventual target for IAF.
View:
Total 12 new squadrons of Tejas MK2 and AMCA translates into requirement of over 200 combat aircraft. Contract for Tejas MK2 will be placed with Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) as the company has been the nominated manufacturer. First prototype of Tejas MK2 is expected this year end and trials are expected next year. AMCA will also be manufactured by HAL (through a SPV with private players). With AMCA’s prelim design phase already being completed and metal cutting also starting recently, we believe that design and development phase will be completed by mid-2023.
Impact:
Positive.