Delays in Tejas combat jet programme hurting IAF, says Air Chief Marshal Singh

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh stated on Saturday that inordinate delays in inducting Tejas combat aircraft are harming the Indian Air Force amid depleting fighter squadron strength.

The IAF chief noted that the force requires 36 to 40 fighter jets annually and hopes to sign the multi-role fighter aircraft deal for 114 Rafale jets this financial year.

Highlighting procurement bottlenecks, the IAF chief noted that not a single jet has been delivered under the ₹48,000 crore contract for 83 Tejas Mark-1A aircraft awarded to HAL in February 2021.