The IAF wants everything & has always chosen the easy import option versus the harder domestic one. The services don’t talk much to each other and pursue their own acquisition programs without bothering about overall fiscal capability.

Thanks for your input as always, Teer.

The poisonous relationship between IAF and HAL has always appeared to me one of the gravest problems facing both institutions and by extension the national interest. It is beyond a question of fault or responsibility, it simply needs to be fixed.

Similarly the apparent lack of communication and coordination between the services is a major problem, both at the tactical level but more immediately at the level of acquisitions and infrastructure. For example, the lack of public discussion about ensuring AMCA is readily adaptable for carrier operations is worrying.

Such institutional, structural and cultural issues are ultimately far more important than e.g. the exact timescales and EW configuration of Tejas. Of course news that specific programs are moving forward is always welcome, but the greater hope is that such developments are a sign of a broader commitment to revitalise the roots of the national security establishment with effects that will play out over generations.

Commemorative Battle of Britain Eurofighter Typhoon Unveiled

Imagine how much trouble could’ve been saved by simply posting the full date at the outset…

The “I’m smarter than you” games on this forum are tiring.

We recently heard rumour that HAL had been asked to double Tejas manufacturing capacity, which many interpreted as an increase in full-rate production from eight to sixteen units per year, likely accompanied by increase in total number to be ordered. However the recent report stated that the existing production capacity for Tejas was merely four units per year. If so, doubling the production rate would only translate to eight units delivered per year.

Is there any new info regarding current Tejas production plans and FOC status?

Of course it’s the IAF that was pushing for Rafale, lol. Just as it is undoubtedly the IAF that has been rubbishing Tejas and FGFA and everything else in order to secure those Rafales.

The 36 Rafales with the unspoken possibility for more if LCA or FGFA are delayed is the bargain — explicit or implicit — that was eventually struck, the point of equilibrium between the “must” of the IAF, and the “can’t/won’t” of the treasury.

Whole thing is an utter shambles…

Certainly is, but it’s what’s happening and, beyond lamenting the past, the question now is how best to proceed from here. I’m pleased that Parrikar, seemingly of his own accord, spoke of Tejas as the preferred and affordable way forward.

Doesn’t really matter what the Minister says today, the point is that further Rafale orders will be the logical option if there are further problems/delays with LCA or FGFA.

However it certainly confirms that the original buy was a matter of satisfying the relevant interest groups with the smallest possible commitment. A political decision, not one made in the national interest.