IAF Chief Concerned Over Delayed Procurements
The IAF Chief's statement underscores the importance of timely delivery and accountability in defence projects, and the need for a stronger partnership between the armed forces and Indian industry to achieve self-reliance and defence preparedness.
Air Chief Marshal A P Singh expressed concerns over the delay in procuring critical military platforms, citing timelines as a major issue, and emphasized the importance of air power in military operations. He questioned the practice of promising something that cannot be achieved, pointing to the delayed deliveries of the 83 Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mk 1A and 70 HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft. The IAF Chief urged for quick Make in India programmes to achieve immediate needs, while Design in India can focus on future development.
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has expressed strong concerns over the persistent delays in India's defence projects, urging accountability and timely delivery. He criticized unrealistic timelines in contracts and the defence forces' reluctance to address underperformance. The Air Chief emphasized the need for a stronger partnership between the armed forces and Indian industry, stressing the need to move beyond manufacturing and focus on indigenous design and development in defence.
The IAF Chief also touched upon the culture of restraint within the defence forces, saying they have often refrained from calling out underperformance explicitly. He called for the private sector to seize the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the country's defence preparedness. Singh challenged Indian industry leaders to rise above short-term profits and focus on becoming future-ready, emphasizing the enduring centrality of air power in military operations.
The Air Chief's concerns highlight the need for urgent attention to the delays in defence projects and the importance of self-reliance through the Make in India programme. The IAF's emphasis on air power and indigenous design and development is expected to drive growth in the defence sector and contribute to the country's military preparedness.