As IAF Hits 92 – Atmanirbharta in Military Aviation Most Important

Indian Air Force (IAF) is all set to celebrate its 92nd anniversary. It has just wrapped the mother-of-all-exercises the “Tarang Shakti”, the greatest multi-lateral exercise ever in India. Earlier IAF conducted exercise “Vayu Shakti” in February, and participated in tri-services “Bharat Shakti” exercise in March 2024. The aerospace industry accounts for nearly 40 percent ofContinue reading “As IAF Hits 92 – Atmanirbharta in Military Aviation Most Important”

Modernization Priorities of Military Aviation & Make in India Options and Realities

For many decades after independence, Indian Armed Forces imported military hardware from long-term friend and strategic ally Soviet Union and Russia. Also France became a significant source for military aviation supplies to India. From the 1990s, Israel, and since 2008, the United States (US) have also been important sources. India continues to be one ofContinue reading “Modernization Priorities of Military Aviation & Make in India Options and Realities”

The Indian Air Force Bids Adieu to Iconic MiG-21

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is finally all set to retire its MiG-21 fleet in September 2025 after over 60 years of glorious service. India was among the three major operators after the Soviet Union and China (licensed variant Chengdu J-7). The iconic MiG-21 protected the Indian skies through all major conflicts. Its retirement isContinue reading “The Indian Air Force Bids Adieu to Iconic MiG-21”

Chinese Working on Ejectable Cockpits for High Supersonic Flight – Time India Made Ejection Seats

China is reportedly developing ejectable cockpit systems for high-supersonic aircraft, with research papers and potential visual evidence of related test aircraft emerging. This technology aims to improve crew safety during high-speed flight and is linked to the development of advanced hypersonic and supersonic aircraft, potentially for both military and civilian applications. The research points to a modular escape system designed to detach from theContinue reading “Chinese Working on Ejectable Cockpits for High Supersonic Flight – Time India Made Ejection Seats”

5th Generation Aircraft Choices and Challenges India

India’s AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) program is considered urgent due to the country’s declining fighter squadron strength, the modernization of rival air forces, and the need to maintain a technological edge in air combat. The program aims to replace aging aircraft and introduce a fifth-generation fighter, addressing both operational and strategic requirements. The IndianContinue reading “5th Generation Aircraft Choices and Challenges India”

The Air Chief is Mincing No Words – Time for the Nation to Get Fighter Aircraft Act Right

​In the customary annual press interaction ahead of 93rd Air Force Day, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh dwelt at length on the very successful “Operation Sindoor”, and the capability-building plans of Indian Air Force (IAF). After retirement of the MiG-21 fleet, the IAF is down to 28 squadrons. The first LCA Mk1A has still toContinue reading “The Air Chief is Mincing No Words – Time for the Nation to Get Fighter Aircraft Act Right”

Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) to Power 6th Generation Fighters

The Next-Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) program is a U.S. Air Force (USAF) initiative to develop advanced, adaptable jet engines with features like enhanced fuel efficiency, increased thrust, improved thermal management, and better survivability for future combat aircraft, such as the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter, now also known as the F-47. Pratt & WhitneyContinue reading “Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) to Power 6th Generation Fighters”