At the IAF’s 2026 Annual Press Conference in New Delhi, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh revealed the force’s urgent need to add 40 fighters each year to reverse a shrinkage in squadron strength that has dropped to 30 from a peak of 42.
Singh cited the Tejas Mk1A engine bottleneck as the main obstacle, noting that HAL’s 24‑aircraft production capacity hinges on resolving a supply shortfall that has delayed the program. He said HAL is set to deliver 12 engines this year and 20 per year thereafter, while a 20‑aircraft annual output could still leave a 10‑aircraft gap that other programmes must fill.
The Multi‑Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) contract could inject an additional 12 aircraft per year, and a 12‑aircraft Su‑30 order could be split into two annual deliveries of six each, Singh said, bringing the total annual induction to roughly 30–40 fighters if all projects stay on schedule.
The IAF’s priority is to prevent further attrition of older jets; Singh warned that each retiring aircraft must be replaced faster than it leaves service. He said the Air Force will work with industry partners to secure engine supply, expedite Tejas production, and bring MRFA and Su‑30 programmes under control, with the first Tejas Mk1A expected in 2027. The next critical step is a cabinet‑level review of the procurement strategy, slated for 12 July, which will decide whether to fast‑track the MRFA contract.