Indian Defence Committee Submits Report For Capability Enhancement of IAF
On March 03, 2025, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh presented the report of the Empowered Committee for Capability Enhancement of the Indian Air Force (IAF) to Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in New Delhi. The Committee, formed on the directions of the Raksha Mantri, was tasked with holistically examining all issues and preparing a clear action plan to strengthen the IAF’s capabilities.
The report identifies key focus areas and provides actionable recommendations for short, medium, and long-term implementation to achieve the IAF’s capability enhancement goals in an optimal manner. It emphasizes the need to boost ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in the aerospace sector by encouraging private sector participation to complement the efforts of DPSUs (Defence Public Sector Undertakings) and DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation). It specifically addresses the critical issue of the IAF’s dwindling fighter squadron strength, which currently stands at 30 squadrons against the sanctioned strength of 42, by proposing measures to accelerate the induction of advanced combat aircraft, modernize existing fleets, and boost indigenous production.
his is seen as a vital step to reduce dependency on imports and expedite the development and deployment of indigenous fighter aircraft, such as the Tejas Mk-2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh appreciated the Committee’s efforts and directed that the recommendations be implemented in a time-bound manner to ensure timely capability enhancement of the IAF.
The Committee, chaired by the Defence Secretary, included key members such as the Vice Chief of Air Staff, Secretary (Defence Production), Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, DG Acquisition, and Deputy Chief of the Air Staff as Member Secretary. The comprehensive report aims to address critical gaps and strengthen the IAF’s operational readiness and technological edge.
