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”

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”

Su-57 and GCAP Goading India – What are Best Fifth Generation Options India

Russia’s Su-57 “Felon” fifth-generation stealth fighter once again enthralled spectators at the recent Dubai Airshow. As India prepares to host President Putin, defence cooperation has moved to the centre. Expectations around Putin’s visit are high. Su-57 collaboration and five additional S-400 systems are expected to be the starred points of discussion. It could mean theContinue reading “Su-57 and GCAP Goading India – What are Best Fifth Generation Options India”

Rafale F4/F5 Getting Closer to the Make in India Deal

A suspected leak from France’s Ministry of the Armed Forces a few days back suggests that India intends to procure 90 Rafale F4 multirole fighter aircraft, with an additional option for 24 next-generation Rafale F5 variants for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The IAF had also reportedly moved a case for possible purchase of 114Continue reading “Rafale F4/F5 Getting Closer to the Make in India Deal”

Pakistan Pushing for J-35 Fifth Generation Aircraft – Way Ahead India

Midst of Op Sindoor, Pakistan once again announced that it will start acquiring around 40 Chinese fifth-generation fighter J-35A, as early as August 2025. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reportedly finalized the logistics and financing details of the J-35 fighter jet deal during his visit to China immediately after Op Sindoor. Can China fast-track the production and deliveries of an aircraft which has just begun production remains aContinue reading “Pakistan Pushing for J-35 Fifth Generation Aircraft – Way Ahead India”

The Wittty Vriti Show: Independence Day Special Pod cast Air Marshal Anil Chopra

In this Independence Day special episode of “The Wittty Vriti Show”, she brings an exclusive conversation with Air Marshal Anil Chopra, a distinguished veteran of the Indian Air Force. From sharing his remarkable journey as a fighter pilot to insights on India’s strategic defense, the evolution of iconic aircraft, and the sacrifices of military families,Continue reading “The Wittty Vriti Show: Independence Day Special Pod cast Air Marshal Anil Chopra”

F-35 Has Complications. Accelerate AMCA – Private Consortium Approach the Best Way Forward

The AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) program in India 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.Continue reading “F-35 Has Complications. Accelerate AMCA – Private Consortium Approach the Best Way Forward”