Rafale a game changer, now IAF challenge is to boost jet strength

THE INDUCTION of five French Rafale aircraft at Ambala on Wednesday will be a game changer in many ways, but may not make up for the shortfall faced by the Indian Air Force, according to senior officers of IAF.

The Rafale aircraft’s arrival brought attention to the biggest challenge confronting the IAF: its depleting strength of fighter jets. Against an authorisation of 42 squadrons, it will have 29 squadrons in 2023. At present, its fleet comprises 30 squadrons of fighter jets.

“Is getting two squadrons of Rafale significant? Yes, it is a game changer in many ways. But does this induction make up for all the other shortfalls faced by the IAF? No, those challenges remain and will have to be tackled,” a senior IAF officer told The Indian Express.