India, March 5 -- With adversaries rapidly upgrading to next-generation aircraft, India must priortise air combat readiness

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is at a critical juncture, balancing the need for rapid modernisation with self-sufficiency under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. A recent report by the Empowered Committee for Capability Enhancement of the IAF, has identified key thrust areas and provided recommendations to address shortfalls and enhance the force's capabilities. The IAF is currently operating at 31 fighter squadrons, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons. The delays in the induction of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A and the gradual phasing out of ageing Jaguar, MiG-29UPG, and Mirage-2000...