Mission
Evolution of the IAF Roundel over the years:
1)1933–1942 2)1942–1945
3)1947–1950
4)1950 – present[10]The IAF's mission is defined by the Armed Forces Act of 1947, the Constitution of India, and the Air Force Act of 1950.[11] It decrees that in the aerial battlespace:
Defence of India and every part there of including preparation for defence and all such acts as may be conducive in times of war to its prosecution and after its termination to effective demobilisation.
In practice, this is taken as a directive meaning the IAF bears the responsibility of safeguarding Indian airspace and thus furthering national interests in conjunction with the other branches of the armed forces. The IAF provides close air support to the Indian Army troops on the battlefield as well as strategic and tactical airlift capabilities. The Integrated Space Cell is operated by the Indian Armed Forces, the civilian Department of Space, and the Indian Space Research Organisation. By uniting the civilian run space exploration organizations and the military faculty under a single Integrated Space Cell the military is able to efficiently benefit from innovation in the civilian sector of space exploration, and the civilian departments benefit as well.[clarification needed][12][13]
The Indian Air Force, with highly trained crews, pilots, and access to modern military assets provides India with the capacity to provide rapid response evacuation, search-and-rescue (SAR) operations, and delivery of relief supplies to affected areas via cargo aircraft.[14] The IAF provided extensive assistance to relief operations during natural calamities such as the Gujarat cyclone in 1998, the tsunami in 2004, and North India floods in 2013.[14] The IAF has also undertaken relief missions such as Operation Rainbow in Sri Lanka.[14]
HistoryMain article: History of the Indian Air Force
See also: List of historical aircraft of the Indian Air Force
Formation and early pilots
A Westland Wapiti, one of the first aircraft of the Indian Air Force.The Indian Air Force was established on 8 October 1932 in British India as an auxiliary air force[15] of the Royal Air Force. The enactment of the Indian Air Force Act 1932[16][17] stipulated out their auxiliary status and enforced the adoption of the Royal Air Force uniforms, badges, brevets and insignia.[18] On 1 April 1933, the IAF commissioned its first squadron, No.1 Squadron, with four Westland Wapiti biplanes and five Indian pilots. The Indian pilots were led by British RAFCommanding officer Flight Lieutenant (later Air Vice Marshal) Cecil Bouchier.[19]
Evolution of the IAF Roundel over the years:
1)1933–1942 2)1942–1945
3)1947–1950
4)1950 – present[10]The IAF's mission is defined by the Armed Forces Act of 1947, the Constitution of India, and the Air Force Act of 1950.[11] It decrees that in the aerial battlespace:
Defence of India and every part there of including preparation for defence and all such acts as may be conducive in times of war to its prosecution and after its termination to effective demobilisation.
In practice, this is taken as a directive meaning the IAF bears the responsibility of safeguarding Indian airspace and thus furthering national interests in conjunction with the other branches of the armed forces. The IAF provides close air support to the Indian Army troops on the battlefield as well as strategic and tactical airlift capabilities. The Integrated Space Cell is operated by the Indian Armed Forces, the civilian Department of Space, and the Indian Space Research Organisation. By uniting the civilian run space exploration organizations and the military faculty under a single Integrated Space Cell the military is able to efficiently benefit from innovation in the civilian sector of space exploration, and the civilian departments benefit as well.[clarification needed][12][13]
The Indian Air Force, with highly trained crews, pilots, and access to modern military assets provides India with the capacity to provide rapid response evacuation, search-and-rescue (SAR) operations, and delivery of relief supplies to affected areas via cargo aircraft.[14] The IAF provided extensive assistance to relief operations during natural calamities such as the Gujarat cyclone in 1998, the tsunami in 2004, and North India floods in 2013.[14] The IAF has also undertaken relief missions such as Operation Rainbow in Sri Lanka.[14]
HistoryMain article: History of the Indian Air Force
See also: List of historical aircraft of the Indian Air Force
Formation and early pilots
A Westland Wapiti, one of the first aircraft of the Indian Air Force.The Indian Air Force was established on 8 October 1932 in British India as an auxiliary air force[15] of the Royal Air Force. The enactment of the Indian Air Force Act 1932[16][17] stipulated out their auxiliary status and enforced the adoption of the Royal Air Force uniforms, badges, brevets and insignia.[18] On 1 April 1933, the IAF commissioned its first squadron, No.1 Squadron, with four Westland Wapiti biplanes and five Indian pilots. The Indian pilots were led by British RAFCommanding officer Flight Lieutenant (later Air Vice Marshal) Cecil Bouchier.[19]
Wings Indian Air Force
Nabha Sparsham Deeptam
"Touch the Sky with Glory"
Headquarters
History and traditions
Aircraft
Installations
Exercises
Personnel
A wing is a formation intermediate between a command and a squadron. It generally consists of two or three IAF squadrons and helicopter units, along with forward base support units (FBSU). FBSUs do not have or host any squadrons or helicopter units but act as transit airbases for routine operations. In times of war, they can become fully fledged air bases playing host to various squadrons. In all, about 47 wings and 19 FBSUs make up the IAF.[100][101] Wings are typically commanded by a group captain.
Squadrons and units[edit]Squadrons are the field units and formations attached to static locations. Thus, a flying squadron or unit is a sub-unit of an air force station which carries out the primary task of the IAF. A fighter squadron consists of 18 aircraft; all fighter squadrons are headed by a commanding officer with the rank of wing commander.[102] Some transport squadrons and helicopter units are headed by a commanding officer with the rank of group captain.
Flights[edit]Flights are sub-divisions of squadrons, commanded by a squadron leader. Each flight consists of two sections.[103]
Sections The smallest unit is the section, led by a flight lieutenant. Each section consists of three aircraft.
Within this formation structure, IAF has several service branches for day-to-day operations. They are:[104]
Flying Branch
Nabha Sparsham Deeptam
"Touch the Sky with Glory"
Headquarters
History and traditions
Aircraft
Installations
Exercises
Personnel
A wing is a formation intermediate between a command and a squadron. It generally consists of two or three IAF squadrons and helicopter units, along with forward base support units (FBSU). FBSUs do not have or host any squadrons or helicopter units but act as transit airbases for routine operations. In times of war, they can become fully fledged air bases playing host to various squadrons. In all, about 47 wings and 19 FBSUs make up the IAF.[100][101] Wings are typically commanded by a group captain.
Squadrons and units[edit]Squadrons are the field units and formations attached to static locations. Thus, a flying squadron or unit is a sub-unit of an air force station which carries out the primary task of the IAF. A fighter squadron consists of 18 aircraft; all fighter squadrons are headed by a commanding officer with the rank of wing commander.[102] Some transport squadrons and helicopter units are headed by a commanding officer with the rank of group captain.
Flights[edit]Flights are sub-divisions of squadrons, commanded by a squadron leader. Each flight consists of two sections.[103]
Sections The smallest unit is the section, led by a flight lieutenant. Each section consists of three aircraft.
Within this formation structure, IAF has several service branches for day-to-day operations. They are:[104]
Flying Branch
- Flying
- Engineering
- Logistics
- Administration
- Accounts
- Education
- Medical & Dental
- Meteorological
Garud Commando Force[edit]Main article: Garud Commando ForceIn September 2009, the IAFMM. established its own special operation unit called the Garud Commando Force, consisting of approximately 1,500 personnel. For starting this special force volunteers from exiting trades were called and sent for commando and specialised training at various institutes of army and other forces. The airmen who successfully completed all course were inducted in Garud force, while special recruitment and selections from various IAF training institute were made for selecting young air warriors for Garud SF. By doing this IAF got two set of personnel for its SF, i.e. experienced senior lot with experience of working in various IAF units and younger airmen who can be groomed and brought up to the standards of SF. The unit derives its name from Garuda, a divine mythical bird of Hindu Mythology, but more commonly the word for Garuda in Sanskrit. Garud is tasked with the protection of critical installations; During hostilities, Garuds undertake combat search and rescue, rescue of downed airmen and other forces from behind enemy lines, suppression of enemy air defence (SEAD), radar busting, combat control, missile and munitions guidance ("lasing" of targets) and other missions in support of air operations. It has been suggested that they undertake an offensive role including raids on enemy air bases etc. during times of war.
Apart from protecting air bases from sabotage and attacks by commando raids, they are also tasked to seal off weapons systems, fighter hangars and other major systems during intrusions and conflicts. and disaster relief during calamities.[105]
Integrated Space Cell[edit]Main article: Integrated Space CellAn Integrated Space Cell, which will be jointly operated by all the three services of the Indian armed forces, the civilian Department of Space and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been set up to utilise more effectively the country's space-based assets for military purposes.[12][13] This command will leverage space technology including satellites. Unlike an aerospace command, where the air force controls most of its activities, the Integrated Space Cell envisages co-operation and co-ordination between the three services as well as civilian agencies dealing with space.[106]
India currently has 10[107] remote sensing satellites in orbit. Though most are not meant to be dedicated military satellites, some have a spatial resolution of 1 metre or below which can be also used for military applications. Noteworthy satellites include the Technology Experiment Satellite (TES) which has a panchromatic camera (PAN) with a resolution of 1-metre,[108] the RISAT-2 which is capable of imaging in all-weather conditions and has a resolution of one metre,[109] the CARTOSAT-2, CARTOSAT-2A[110][111] and CARTOSAT-2B[112] which carries a panchromatic camera which has a resolution of 80 centimetres (black and white only).
Apart from protecting air bases from sabotage and attacks by commando raids, they are also tasked to seal off weapons systems, fighter hangars and other major systems during intrusions and conflicts. and disaster relief during calamities.[105]
Integrated Space Cell[edit]Main article: Integrated Space CellAn Integrated Space Cell, which will be jointly operated by all the three services of the Indian armed forces, the civilian Department of Space and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been set up to utilise more effectively the country's space-based assets for military purposes.[12][13] This command will leverage space technology including satellites. Unlike an aerospace command, where the air force controls most of its activities, the Integrated Space Cell envisages co-operation and co-ordination between the three services as well as civilian agencies dealing with space.[106]
India currently has 10[107] remote sensing satellites in orbit. Though most are not meant to be dedicated military satellites, some have a spatial resolution of 1 metre or below which can be also used for military applications. Noteworthy satellites include the Technology Experiment Satellite (TES) which has a panchromatic camera (PAN) with a resolution of 1-metre,[108] the RISAT-2 which is capable of imaging in all-weather conditions and has a resolution of one metre,[109] the CARTOSAT-2, CARTOSAT-2A[110][111] and CARTOSAT-2B[112] which carries a panchromatic camera which has a resolution of 80 centimetres (black and white only).
Airmen The duty of an airman in the Indian Air Force is to make sure that all the air and ground operations run smoothly. From operating Air Defence systems to fitting missiles, they are involved in all activities of an air base and give support to various technical and non-technical jobs.[128] The airmen of Technical trades are responsible for maintenance, repair and prepare for use the propulsion system of aircraft and other airborne weapon delivery system, Radar, Voice/Data transmission and reception equipment, latest airborne weapon delivery systems, all types of light, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic systems of airborne missiles, aero engines, aircraft fuelling equipment and heavy duty mechanical vehicles, cranes and loading equipment etc.[129] The competent and qualified Airmen from Technical trades also participate in flying as Flight Engineers, Flight Signallers and Flight Gunners. The recruitment of personnel below officer rank is conducted through All India Selection Tests and Recruitment Rallies. All India Selection Tests are conducted among 15 Airmen Selection Centres (ASCs) located all over India. These centres are under the direct functional control of Central Airmen Selection Board (CASB), with administrative control and support by respective commands. The role of CASB is to carry out selection and enrolment of airmen from the Airmen Selection Centres for their respective commands.[128] Candidates initially take a written test at the time of application. Those passing the written test undergo a physical fitness test, an interview conducted in English, and medical examination. Candidates for training are selected from individuals passing the battery of tests, on the basis of their performance. Upon completion of training, an individual becomes an Airman.[128]Some MWOs and WOs are granted honorary commission in the last year of their service as an honorary Flying Officer or Flight Lieutenant before retiring from the service.[128]
Airmen during Air Force Day celebration. The logo (roundel) of IAF can be seen on the aircraft.
Multi-role fighters and strike aircraft
Tejas
Aerial refuelling The IAF currently operates 7 Ilyushin Il-78MKIs in the aerial refuelling (tanker) role.[153][154]
Transport aircraft
Boeing C-17 Globemaster IIIFor strategic airlift operations the IAF uses the Ilyushin Il-76, known as Gajraj (Hindi for King Elephant) in Indian service.[155] The IAF operated 17 Il-76s in 2010,[156] which are in the process of being replaced by C-17 Globemaster IIIs.[157][158]
The IAF C-130Js are used by special forces for combined Army-Air Force operations.[159] India purchased six C-130Js; however one crashed at Gwalior on 28 March 2014 while on a training mission, killing all 5 on board and destroying the aircraft.[160][161] The Antonov An-32, known in Indian service as the Sutlej (named for the Sutlej River), serves as a medium transport aircraft in the IAF. The aircraft is also used in bombing roles and para-dropping operations.[162] The IAF currently operates 105 An-32s, all of which are being upgraded.[162] The Dornier Do 228 serves as light transport aircraft in the IAF.[163] The IAF also operates Boeing 737s[164] and Embraer ECJ-135 Legacy aircraft[165] as VIP transports and passenger airliners for troops. Other VIP transport aircraft are used for both the President of India and the Prime Minister of India under the call sign Air India One.[166]
The Hawker Siddeley HS 748 once formed the backbone of the IAF's transport fleet, but are now used mainly for training and communication duties.[167] A replacement is under consideration.[168]
Trainer aircraft[edit]
IAF BAE Hawk Mk 132.The HAL HPT-32 Deepak is IAF's basic flight training aircraft for cadets.[169] The HPT-32 was grounded in July 2009 following a crash that killed two senior flight instructors,[170] but was revived in May 2010[170] and is to be fitted with a parachute recovery system (PRS) to enhance survivability during an emergency in the air and to bring the trainer down safely.[170] The HPT-32 is to be phased out soon.[170] The HPT 32 has been replaced by Pilatus, a Swiss aircraft. The IAF uses the HAL HJT-16 Kiran mk.I for intermediate flight training of cadets, while the HJT-16 Kiran mk.II provides advanced flight and weapons training.[171][172] The HAL HJT-16 Kiran Mk.2 is also operated by the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the IAF.[173] The Kiran is to be replaced by the HAL HJT-36 Sitara.[174] The BAE Hawk Mk 132 serves as an advanced jet trainer in the IAF and is progressively replacing the Kiran Mk.II. The IAF has begun the process of converting the Surya Kiran display team to Hawks.[115] A total of 106 BAE Hawk trainers have been ordered by the IAF of which 39 have entered service as of July 2010.[175] IAF also ordered 72 Pipistrel Virus SW 80 microlight aircraft for basic training purpose.[176][177]
Helicopters[edit]The HAL Dhruv serves primarily as a light utility helicopter in the IAF. In addition to transport and utility roles, newer Dhruvs are also used as attack helicopters.[178] 4 Dhruvs are also operated by the Indian Air Force Sarang Helicopter Display Team.[117] The HAL Chetakis a light utility helicopter and is used primarily for training, rescue and light transport roles in the IAF.[179] The HAL Chetak is being gradually replaced by HAL Dhruv.[179] The HAL Cheetah is a light utility helicopter used for high altitude operations. It is used for both transport and search-and-rescue missions in the IAF.[180]
The Mil Mi-8 and the Mil Mi-17, Mi-17 1V and Mi-17V 5 are operated by the IAF for medium lift strategic and utility roles. The Mi-8 is being progressively replaced by the Mi-17 series of helicopters.[181][182] The IAF has ordered 22 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack Helicopters, 68 HAL Light Combat Helicopters(LCH),35 HAL Rudra attack Helicopters, 15 CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helicopters and 150 Mi-17V-5s to replace and augment its existing fleet of Mi-8s and Mi-17s and Mi-24's.[183] The Mil Mi-26 serves as a heavy lift helicopter in the IAF. It can also be used to transport troops or as a flying ambulance. The IAF currently operates 3 Mi-26s.[184]
The Mil Mi-35 serves primarily as an attack helicopter in the IAF. The Mil Mi-35 can also act as a low-capacity troop transport. The IAF currently operates 2 squadrons (No.104 Firebirds and No.125 Gladiators) of Mi-25/35s.[185]
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles[edit]The IAF currently uses the IAI Searcher II[186] and IAI Heron[187] for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes. The IAI Harpy serves as an Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) which is designed to attack radar systems.[188] The IAF also operates the DRDO Lakshya which serves as realistic towed aerial sub-targets for live fire training.[189]
Land-based missile systems[edit]
Akash missile.Surface-To Air Missiles[edit]The SPYDER (Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby) is an Israeli short and medium range mobile air defence system developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with assistance from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). The SPYDER is a low-level, quick-reaction surface-to-air missile system capable of engaging aircraft, helicopters, unmanned air vehicles, drones, and precision-guided munitions. It provides air defence for fixed assets and for point and area defence for mobile forces in combat areas. Six SPYDER-MRs along with 300 Python-5 surface to missiles (SAMs) and 300 Derby SAMs are in service with the Indian Air Force
The S-125 Pechora[190] and the 9K33 Osa[131] as Surface-to-air missile systems in service are being replaced with the Akash medium range surface-to-air missile system. A total of 8 squadrons has been ordered so far[191] out of which 2 squadrons have been delivered and stationed at Gwalior and Pune.
Ballistic missiles[edit]The IAF currently operates the Prithvi-II short-range ballistic missile (SRBM). The Prithvi-II is an IAF-specific variant of the Prithvi ballistic missile.[192]
Future of the Indian Air Force[edit]Main article: Future of the Indian Air ForceThe number of aircraft in the IAF has been decreasing from the late 1990s due to retirement of older aircraft and several crashes. To deal with the depletion of force levels, the IAF has started to modernise its fleet. This includes both the upgrade of existing aircraft, equipment and infrastructure as well as induction of new aircraft and equipment, both indigenous and imported. As new aircraft enter service and numbers recover, the IAF plans to have a fleet of 42 squadrons.[193]
Expected future acquisitions Single-engined fighter On 3 January 2017, Minister of Defence Manohar Parrikar addressed a media conference and announced plans for a competition to select a Strategic Partner to deliver "... 200 new single engine fighters to be made in India, which will easily cost around (USD)$45 million apiece without weaponry" with an expectation that Lockheed Martin (USA) and Saab (Sweden) will pitch the F-16 Block 70 and Gripen, respectively. An MoD official said that a global tender will be put to market in the first quarter of 2018, with a private company nominated as the strategic partners production agency followed by a two or more year process to evaluate technical and financial bids and conduct trials, before the final government-to-government deal in 2021. This represents 11 squadrons of aircraft plus several 'attrition' aircraft.[194]
Current acquisitions[edit]
Dassault RafaleThe IAF has placed orders for 120 HAL Tejas fighters,[195] 36 Dassault Rafale multi-role fighters,[196] 112 Pilatus PC-7MkII basic trainers,[197][198] 72 HAL HJT-36 Sitara trainers,[115] 72 Pipistrel Virus SW 80 microlight aircraft,[199][177] 10 C-17 Globemaster III strategic air-lifters,[200] 65 HAL Light Combat Helicopters,[201] 139 Mi-17V-5 helicopters.[183][202] and the IAF has also ordered 18 Israeli SPYDER Surface to Air Missile (SAM) units.[203] IAF has also ordered 6 Airbus A330 tanker aircraft,[204] 22 AH-64E Apache Longbow heavy attack helicopters,[205] 15 CH-47F medium lift helicopters[206][207] and IAI Harop UCAVs.[188][208] India is also planning to set up an assembly line of American Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon Block 70 in Bengaluru. It is not yet confirmed whether IAF will induct these aircraft or not.
CH-47F ChinookThe IAF has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for 16 C-27J Spartan medium military transport aircraft.[209] A new Request For Information has been issued to replace Hawker Siddeley HS 748 for $2.4 billion.[210] The IAF also submitted a request for information to international suppliers for a stealth unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV)[211]
DRDO and HAL projects[edit]Indian defence companies such as HAL and DRDO are developing several aircraft for the IAF such as the HAL Tejas,[142][143] Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA),[212] DRDO AEW&CS (revived from the Airavat Project),[213] NAL Saras,[214] HAL HJT-36 Sitara,[215] HAL HTT-40, HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH),[216] HAL Light Utility Helicopter (LUH),[217]DRDO Rustom[218] and AURA (Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft) UCAV.[219] DRDO has developed the Akash missile system for the IAF[220][221] and is developing the Maitri SAM with MBDA.[222] DRDO is also developing the Prithvi II ballistic missile.[223]
HAL has undertaken the joint development of the Sukhoi/HAL FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft)[224] (a derivative project of the Sukhoi Su-57) and the UAC/HAL Il-214 Multirole Transport Aircraft (MTA)[225] with Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (UAC).HAL is also close to develop its own fifth generation fighter aircraft HAL Amca which will be inducted by 2028. DRDO has entered in a joint venture with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to develop the Barak 8 SAM.[226] DRDO is developing the air-launched version of the BrahMos cruise missile in a joint venture with Russia's NPO Mashinostroeyenia. DRDO has now successfully developed the nuclear capable Nirbhay cruise missile.[227]
Network-centric warfare[edit]The Air Force Network (AFNET), a robust digital information grid that enabled quick and accurate threat responses, was launched in 2010, helping the IAF become a truly network-centric air force. AFNET is a secure communication network linking command and control centres with offensive aircraft, sensor platforms and ground missile batteries. Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), an automated system for Air Defence operations will ride the AFNet backbone integrating ground and airborne sensors, weapon systems and command and control nodes. Subsequent integration with civil radar and other networks shall provide an integrated Air Situation Picture, and reportedly acts as a force multiplier for intelligence analysis, mission control, and support activities like maintenance and logistics. The design features multiple layers of security measures, including encryption and intrusion prevention technologies, to hinder and deter espionage efforts.[228]
See also
- Sukhoi Su-30MKI : The IAF's primary air superiority fighter with the additional capability to conduct air-ground (strike) missions is Sukhoi Su-30MKI. The IAF have placed an order for a total of 314 Su-30MKIs[137] of which 242[138] are in service as of January 2016.
- Mikoyan MiG-29 : The Mikoyan MiG-29 known as Baaz (Hindi for Hawk) is a dedicated air superiority fighter and constitutes a second line of defence after the Sukhoi Su-30MKI. 69 MiG-29s are in service, all of which have been recently upgraded to the MiG-29UPG standard.[139]
- Dassault Mirage 2000 : The Dassault Mirage 2000, known as Vajra (Sanskrit for Diamond or thunderbolt) in Indian service, is the primary multirole fighter, the IAF currently operates 49 Mirage 2000Hs and 8 Mirage 2000 TH all of which are currently being upgraded to the Mirage 2000-5 MK2 standard and 2 Mirage 2000-5 MK2 are in service as of March 2015.[140][141]
- HAL Tejas : The MiG-21s are planned to be replaced by the indigenously built HAL Tejas.[142][143] The first Tejas IAF unit, No. 45 Squadron IAF Flying Daggers was formed on 1 July 2016 with two aircraft. Initially being stationed at Bangalore, the first squadron will be placed at its home base at Sulur, Tamil Nadu.[144]
Tejas
- SEPECAT Jaguar: The SEPECAT Jaguar known as Shamsher serves as the IAF's primary ground attack force.[145] The IAF currently operates 139 Jaguars.[146]
- Mikoyan MiG-27 : The Mikoyan MiG-27 known as Bahadur (Hindi for Valiant) serves as the IAF's primary ground attack force. The IAF currently operates over 85 MiG-27s.[147]
- Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 : The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 serves as an Interceptor aircraft in the IAF. The IAF have phased out most of its MiG-21s and plans to keep only 125 that have been upgraded to MiG-21 Bison standard.[148] These aircraft will be phased out between 2014 and 2017.[149]
Aerial refuelling The IAF currently operates 7 Ilyushin Il-78MKIs in the aerial refuelling (tanker) role.[153][154]
Transport aircraft
Boeing C-17 Globemaster IIIFor strategic airlift operations the IAF uses the Ilyushin Il-76, known as Gajraj (Hindi for King Elephant) in Indian service.[155] The IAF operated 17 Il-76s in 2010,[156] which are in the process of being replaced by C-17 Globemaster IIIs.[157][158]
The IAF C-130Js are used by special forces for combined Army-Air Force operations.[159] India purchased six C-130Js; however one crashed at Gwalior on 28 March 2014 while on a training mission, killing all 5 on board and destroying the aircraft.[160][161] The Antonov An-32, known in Indian service as the Sutlej (named for the Sutlej River), serves as a medium transport aircraft in the IAF. The aircraft is also used in bombing roles and para-dropping operations.[162] The IAF currently operates 105 An-32s, all of which are being upgraded.[162] The Dornier Do 228 serves as light transport aircraft in the IAF.[163] The IAF also operates Boeing 737s[164] and Embraer ECJ-135 Legacy aircraft[165] as VIP transports and passenger airliners for troops. Other VIP transport aircraft are used for both the President of India and the Prime Minister of India under the call sign Air India One.[166]
The Hawker Siddeley HS 748 once formed the backbone of the IAF's transport fleet, but are now used mainly for training and communication duties.[167] A replacement is under consideration.[168]
Trainer aircraft[edit]
IAF BAE Hawk Mk 132.The HAL HPT-32 Deepak is IAF's basic flight training aircraft for cadets.[169] The HPT-32 was grounded in July 2009 following a crash that killed two senior flight instructors,[170] but was revived in May 2010[170] and is to be fitted with a parachute recovery system (PRS) to enhance survivability during an emergency in the air and to bring the trainer down safely.[170] The HPT-32 is to be phased out soon.[170] The HPT 32 has been replaced by Pilatus, a Swiss aircraft. The IAF uses the HAL HJT-16 Kiran mk.I for intermediate flight training of cadets, while the HJT-16 Kiran mk.II provides advanced flight and weapons training.[171][172] The HAL HJT-16 Kiran Mk.2 is also operated by the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the IAF.[173] The Kiran is to be replaced by the HAL HJT-36 Sitara.[174] The BAE Hawk Mk 132 serves as an advanced jet trainer in the IAF and is progressively replacing the Kiran Mk.II. The IAF has begun the process of converting the Surya Kiran display team to Hawks.[115] A total of 106 BAE Hawk trainers have been ordered by the IAF of which 39 have entered service as of July 2010.[175] IAF also ordered 72 Pipistrel Virus SW 80 microlight aircraft for basic training purpose.[176][177]
Helicopters[edit]The HAL Dhruv serves primarily as a light utility helicopter in the IAF. In addition to transport and utility roles, newer Dhruvs are also used as attack helicopters.[178] 4 Dhruvs are also operated by the Indian Air Force Sarang Helicopter Display Team.[117] The HAL Chetakis a light utility helicopter and is used primarily for training, rescue and light transport roles in the IAF.[179] The HAL Chetak is being gradually replaced by HAL Dhruv.[179] The HAL Cheetah is a light utility helicopter used for high altitude operations. It is used for both transport and search-and-rescue missions in the IAF.[180]
The Mil Mi-8 and the Mil Mi-17, Mi-17 1V and Mi-17V 5 are operated by the IAF for medium lift strategic and utility roles. The Mi-8 is being progressively replaced by the Mi-17 series of helicopters.[181][182] The IAF has ordered 22 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack Helicopters, 68 HAL Light Combat Helicopters(LCH),35 HAL Rudra attack Helicopters, 15 CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helicopters and 150 Mi-17V-5s to replace and augment its existing fleet of Mi-8s and Mi-17s and Mi-24's.[183] The Mil Mi-26 serves as a heavy lift helicopter in the IAF. It can also be used to transport troops or as a flying ambulance. The IAF currently operates 3 Mi-26s.[184]
The Mil Mi-35 serves primarily as an attack helicopter in the IAF. The Mil Mi-35 can also act as a low-capacity troop transport. The IAF currently operates 2 squadrons (No.104 Firebirds and No.125 Gladiators) of Mi-25/35s.[185]
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles[edit]The IAF currently uses the IAI Searcher II[186] and IAI Heron[187] for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes. The IAI Harpy serves as an Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) which is designed to attack radar systems.[188] The IAF also operates the DRDO Lakshya which serves as realistic towed aerial sub-targets for live fire training.[189]
Land-based missile systems[edit]
Akash missile.Surface-To Air Missiles[edit]The SPYDER (Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby) is an Israeli short and medium range mobile air defence system developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with assistance from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). The SPYDER is a low-level, quick-reaction surface-to-air missile system capable of engaging aircraft, helicopters, unmanned air vehicles, drones, and precision-guided munitions. It provides air defence for fixed assets and for point and area defence for mobile forces in combat areas. Six SPYDER-MRs along with 300 Python-5 surface to missiles (SAMs) and 300 Derby SAMs are in service with the Indian Air Force
The S-125 Pechora[190] and the 9K33 Osa[131] as Surface-to-air missile systems in service are being replaced with the Akash medium range surface-to-air missile system. A total of 8 squadrons has been ordered so far[191] out of which 2 squadrons have been delivered and stationed at Gwalior and Pune.
Ballistic missiles[edit]The IAF currently operates the Prithvi-II short-range ballistic missile (SRBM). The Prithvi-II is an IAF-specific variant of the Prithvi ballistic missile.[192]
Future of the Indian Air Force[edit]Main article: Future of the Indian Air ForceThe number of aircraft in the IAF has been decreasing from the late 1990s due to retirement of older aircraft and several crashes. To deal with the depletion of force levels, the IAF has started to modernise its fleet. This includes both the upgrade of existing aircraft, equipment and infrastructure as well as induction of new aircraft and equipment, both indigenous and imported. As new aircraft enter service and numbers recover, the IAF plans to have a fleet of 42 squadrons.[193]
Expected future acquisitions Single-engined fighter On 3 January 2017, Minister of Defence Manohar Parrikar addressed a media conference and announced plans for a competition to select a Strategic Partner to deliver "... 200 new single engine fighters to be made in India, which will easily cost around (USD)$45 million apiece without weaponry" with an expectation that Lockheed Martin (USA) and Saab (Sweden) will pitch the F-16 Block 70 and Gripen, respectively. An MoD official said that a global tender will be put to market in the first quarter of 2018, with a private company nominated as the strategic partners production agency followed by a two or more year process to evaluate technical and financial bids and conduct trials, before the final government-to-government deal in 2021. This represents 11 squadrons of aircraft plus several 'attrition' aircraft.[194]
Current acquisitions[edit]
Dassault RafaleThe IAF has placed orders for 120 HAL Tejas fighters,[195] 36 Dassault Rafale multi-role fighters,[196] 112 Pilatus PC-7MkII basic trainers,[197][198] 72 HAL HJT-36 Sitara trainers,[115] 72 Pipistrel Virus SW 80 microlight aircraft,[199][177] 10 C-17 Globemaster III strategic air-lifters,[200] 65 HAL Light Combat Helicopters,[201] 139 Mi-17V-5 helicopters.[183][202] and the IAF has also ordered 18 Israeli SPYDER Surface to Air Missile (SAM) units.[203] IAF has also ordered 6 Airbus A330 tanker aircraft,[204] 22 AH-64E Apache Longbow heavy attack helicopters,[205] 15 CH-47F medium lift helicopters[206][207] and IAI Harop UCAVs.[188][208] India is also planning to set up an assembly line of American Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon Block 70 in Bengaluru. It is not yet confirmed whether IAF will induct these aircraft or not.
CH-47F ChinookThe IAF has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for 16 C-27J Spartan medium military transport aircraft.[209] A new Request For Information has been issued to replace Hawker Siddeley HS 748 for $2.4 billion.[210] The IAF also submitted a request for information to international suppliers for a stealth unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV)[211]
DRDO and HAL projects[edit]Indian defence companies such as HAL and DRDO are developing several aircraft for the IAF such as the HAL Tejas,[142][143] Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA),[212] DRDO AEW&CS (revived from the Airavat Project),[213] NAL Saras,[214] HAL HJT-36 Sitara,[215] HAL HTT-40, HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH),[216] HAL Light Utility Helicopter (LUH),[217]DRDO Rustom[218] and AURA (Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft) UCAV.[219] DRDO has developed the Akash missile system for the IAF[220][221] and is developing the Maitri SAM with MBDA.[222] DRDO is also developing the Prithvi II ballistic missile.[223]
HAL has undertaken the joint development of the Sukhoi/HAL FGFA (Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft)[224] (a derivative project of the Sukhoi Su-57) and the UAC/HAL Il-214 Multirole Transport Aircraft (MTA)[225] with Russia's United Aircraft Corporation (UAC).HAL is also close to develop its own fifth generation fighter aircraft HAL Amca which will be inducted by 2028. DRDO has entered in a joint venture with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to develop the Barak 8 SAM.[226] DRDO is developing the air-launched version of the BrahMos cruise missile in a joint venture with Russia's NPO Mashinostroeyenia. DRDO has now successfully developed the nuclear capable Nirbhay cruise missile.[227]
Network-centric warfare[edit]The Air Force Network (AFNET), a robust digital information grid that enabled quick and accurate threat responses, was launched in 2010, helping the IAF become a truly network-centric air force. AFNET is a secure communication network linking command and control centres with offensive aircraft, sensor platforms and ground missile batteries. Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), an automated system for Air Defence operations will ride the AFNet backbone integrating ground and airborne sensors, weapon systems and command and control nodes. Subsequent integration with civil radar and other networks shall provide an integrated Air Situation Picture, and reportedly acts as a force multiplier for intelligence analysis, mission control, and support activities like maintenance and logistics. The design features multiple layers of security measures, including encryption and intrusion prevention technologies, to hinder and deter espionage efforts.[228]
See also