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IAF Goes Public With Su-30 Problems
NEW DELHI, OCT.3, 2015: The Indian Air Force (IAF) leadership has gone public with the poor operational availability of its frontline Su-30MKI fighter fleet, which is reported to be as low as 50 per cent. Also, for the first time, the IAF complained bitterly about the quality of this fighter.
"There are issues about repair, overhaul, turn-around time and supply of spares by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)," complained IAF chief Arup Raha, at a press conference ahead of Air Force Day. The IAF has contracted for 272 Su-30MKI fighters, most of which are being license-produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
"They have missed production targets, and there are issues of quality control," the Air Chief Marshal said.
In an exclusive interview ahead of his press conference, Raha had told Arming India that the IAF intended to have a total of 13 squadrons equipped with the Su-30 MKI aircraft. "There are certain slippages in delivery, but they are not alarming and are being addressed through measures at the appropriate levels," he had said about the Su-30MKI program.
Illustrating the benefits of ample supply of spares, Raha said the IAF's Su-30MKI complement for the recently-conducted 'Exercise Indradhanush' in Britain did not miss a single mission because of sufficient spares back-up. "There was 100 per cent availability of our aircraft during this exercise," he recalled. Efforts are being made to increase the supply of spares.
The IAF chief also flagged problems in the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) with Russia. "There are issues related to work share, technology, costs and time frame. The matter has been taken up at the highest level," he said.
Despite intimate ties, such issues demonstrate the edgy relationship with Russian entities at a functional level. Last year, a public spat broke out between the IAF and the Russian OEM, after an "involuntary" crash of an IAF Su-30MKI at Pune, over the reason for the accident. The IAF maintains that there's a history of "involuntary ejections" with the Su-30. Both the pilots were ejected as they were preparing to land at the Lohegaon airbase in Pune, leading to the crash.
Arming India
Rafale Induction Will Arrest Draw-Down of Combat Fleet: ACM Arup Raha
By Arming India Correspondent
NEW DELHI, OCT.2, 2015: India's air force has placed its bets on the Rafale combat plane induction in the near future to stem the rapid depletion of its combat strength and is hoping that the contracts for the French aircraft are signed at the earliest. It also envisages achieving the sanctioned strength of 42 combat squadrons by 2027, to be ready to meet a possible two-front war threat.
The Indian Air Force is also working alongside the Defense, Home Affairs and Civil Aviation ministries to work out a regulatory mechanism for unregulated flying objects that pose a threat to the safety and security of vital installations in India, a full 15 years after the 9/11 attacks in New York, says Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha in an exclusive interview to Arming India.
Here goes the part-1 of the two-part interview given ahead of the Air Force Day on Oct.8:
Q. We’ve recently witnessed the 50th anniversary of the 1965 Indo-Pak War. It’s also provided a moment of introspection. What are the priorities which need immediate attention of the decision-makers in the context of current challenges? What are the challenges and shortfalls which need immediate attention?
A. IAF is a technology intensive organization and skill development is a long drawn process. Our major challenge has always been to synchronize these two for optimum results. As a result of our critical self-analysis, we, as an organization are focusing on processes rather than events. Our operational capability is dependent on five verticals, namely equipment, training, procedures, infrastructure and force application, based on knowledge and in-depth analysis. Our capability at any instance is governed by the vertical least developed. Therefore, our endeavor is to keep all the verticals moving up in sync. We are aggressively pursuing our acquisitions and simultaneously changing our training philosophy and operational procedures to exploit our equipment profile fully. While infrastructure is being developed on ground to assist aerospace operations, minds are being trained for holistic capability development.
Q. Similarly, what are the emerging future security challenges, say 20-30 years from now, for the IAF that your crystal gazing is throwing up, and what are your thoughts on how to counter these future threats? After the 9/11 attacks in New York, the possibility of an aerial asymmetric warfare by either state or non-state actors became a reality? What’s the next big threat today, in your assessment?
A. Security challenges are extremely dynamic in nature and so are the responses to them. Instead of crystal gazing to assess ‘likely threats’ over a period of 20-30 years, we undertake a process based enhancement of our capability. IAF is focusing on ‘Men, Machine and Methods’. It has constantly believed that by making wise investments in these three areas, we will not only be ready for the existing threats but will also be well prepared to anticipate and respond to future challenges including those from non-state actors. The threat from un-regulated flying objects and machines has emerged very clearly. The MoD/IAF is coordinating with MoCA and MHA to establish proper regulations and control to counter the threat.
Q. How would you compare IAF’s combat, air defense, military transport, ISR capabilities with that of Pakistan Air Force and Chinese PLAAF? What would you suggest should be the Indian strategy to match capability or to counter the threats arising out of India’s traditional rival’s capabilities?
A. Threat and security assessment is a natural and on-going process for a country to ensure its national security. We are enhancing our capability to meet various multi-dimensional threats that we may have to address in the future. Our modernization plan and infrastructure development is in sync with our endeavor to retain a ‘Combat and Capability Edge’. IAF’s focus is on its Capability Enhancement and is not country-specific
Q. The Air Force’s fighter squadron strength, which is one of the parameters to measure the air power that India wields in the region, is at a low. It may not, at present, be at an all-time low vis-à-vis the sanctioned fleet strength. But in the due course of the next five to seven years, it could actually touch an all-time low. Is this a fair assessment? Could you please explain how this process of force level depletion is happening? What would be its effects on the Air Force’s ability to perform its role in the overall security architecture of India? Also, how do you plan to mitigate the situation? What are the likely impediments to the mitigation process?
A. Presently, IAF has 35 active fighter Squadrons against Government authorized strength of 42 Squadrons. The reduction in the strength of fighter Squadrons is due to obsolescence over a period of time. The shortfall in fighter aircraft strength is planned to be made good through induction of the remaining contracted Su-30 MKI, LCA, Rafale and other suitable fighter aircraft. We are also ensuring higher availability of aircraft through better maintenance and logistics management. The Government is aware of the need and the right decisions will be taken to meet our defence requirements. The IAF expects to achieve the sanctioned strength of 42 Fighter Squadrons by the end of the 14th Plan period.
Q. What are your force accretion plans? When and how would you achieve a stage when force accretions will begin to happen? How would you sustain that pace of growth of the combat fleet for the long term, say 2030, 2040 and 2050? What’s your desired end-state in terms of your combat fleet strength? How would you maintain those force levels after you have achieved it?
A. Force accretion is a process which is already in progress as part of the long term capability enhancement vision of the IAF. The capability building of the IAF has received a boost during the current Plan period and I am sure that we will be able to sustain the rate in future as well. We aim to achieve the authorized strength of fighter Squadrons by the end of the 14th Plan period. The sustenance of any fleet is undertaken by following the best maintenance practices and supply chain management. We also undertake mid-life upgrades on fleets in order to enhance their operational capability and relevance. The desired end-state is the capability to undertake full-spectrum operations in the most effective manner in a networked environment. The Government and IAF are committed to ensure that the capability build-up and its sustenance are met through indigenous sources to the maximum extent possible.
Q. Against the backdrop of the retraction of the 2007 MMRCA tender after a long-winding haggling process since Rafale was selected as the L-1 in 2012, what are your expectations from the 36-Rafale government-to-government contract that India is negotiating with France, in terms of how quickly the negotiations could be completed, the deal signed, and the deliveries begin? What are the specific issues that are currently under discussion between the two nation’s negotiation committees? Could you elaborate on the key issues under discussion?
A. The contract negotiations for the 126 MMRCA had reached a stalemate and the process was not making any headway for almost two years. Realizing the ‘Critical Operational Necessity’ of fighter aircraft in the IAF and likelihood of further delays in concluding the MMRCA contract negotiations, the Government decided to procure 36 Rafale aircraft from France through an Inter-Government route. The induction of these aircraft will assist the IAF in arresting the draw down in the number of combat squadrons. The negotiations for the procurement of 36 Rafale aircraft along with Weapons, Sensors and Counter-measures packages are in progress with the French.
Q. Air Force’s requirement under the now-terminated MMRCA tender was 126 aircraft with an option for 63-plane follow-on order. Are these the present requirement too for this class of an aircraft in the Air Force fleet? If yes, how do you plan to make up for the numbers? If no, then what is the number you are looking to procure? What are your alternative plans if you intend to stop the Rafale fleet at 36 planes?
A. The present case is for the procurement of 36 Rafale aircraft. The Government is aware of our requirements and would take a decision on induction of additional fighter aircraft in due course.
Q. There have been references to Su-30 MKI’s capability shortfall in an one-on-one dogfight during a close air combat vis-à-vis Pakistan Air Force’s F-16 C/D, primarily due to the latter’s EW strength? Is that assessment correct and if so, doesn’t this situation pose a limitation on Indian Su-30 MKI fleet countering the PAF’s F-16 fleet? What’s IAF’s counter within its fleet to that capability in the rival’s fleet?
A. Su-30 MKI is a potent platform and is capable of meeting all our operational requirements including those in a one-to-one combat scenario. Our forces have been participating in international exercises with friendly Air Forces against front line state-of the art fighter aircraft, which has provided insight into their capability and operational philosophy. The Su-30 has always performed well during such bi-lateral and multi-lateral Air Force level exercises.
Q. What’s going to be the final number of Su-30 MKI squadrons in the Air Force? How are inductions keeping pace with your plans? Have you overcome the issues of new Sukhoi bases not having shelters for the aircraft that are being deployed in the North East, such as in Tezpur or Chabua?
A. We intend to have a total of 13 squadrons equipped with the Su-30 MKI aircraft. There are certain slippages in delivery but they are not alarming and are being addressed through measures at the appropriate levels.
Q. Would the IAF consider procuring some of the other contenders in the now dead MMRCA tender, such as F-16, Eurofighter Typhoon, Saab or MiG-35 to meet the gap in the combat fleet requirement?
A. These aircraft are state-of-the-art fighters being operated by several Air Forces the world over. However, the IAF is not considering any such proposal at the moment. The Government will take a decision on induction of additional fighter aircraft in due course of time.
Q. Is a light, single-engine combat aircraft requirement of the IAF real? If so, could you confirm if the IAF is examining the offer from Saab for Gripen or Textron for the Scorpion or any other plane in the category to meet this requirement?
A. The IAF fighter fleet will be a mix of light, single-engine aircraft and multi-role twin-engine aircraft that will enable us to prosecute air operations across the entire spectrum of conflicts.
Arming India
Defense Space Agency Coming Up As An Interim Before Aerospace Command: ACM Arup Raha
By Arming India Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Oct.2, 2015: India is establishing a Defense Space Agency (DSA) as an interim arrangement ahead of the government approval for setting up of the ambitious tri-services Aerospace Command, on the lines of the U.S. Air Force's Aerospace Command. The Headquarters of the Integrated Defense Staff (HQ IDS) is working out the charter of responsibilities of the DSA, even as the Narendra Modi government is actively considering the setting up of the Aerospace Command.
Indian Air Force (IAF) is also seriously considering a combat role for its fleet of BAE Systems' Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers (AJTs) that would number about 126, including the 20 that would be operated by the Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team. This will happen after the Hawk fleet goes through an avionics upgrade program, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha said in an exclusive interview to Arming India here ahead of the Air Force Day on Oct.8.
Meanwhile, the India-Russia Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program is in trouble over differences between the two sides on the aircraft's technical features, costs and delivery schedule. IAF also plans to have just three attack helicopter units to perform all envisaged roles, including support to the Indian Army.
The IAF has, finally, agreed to have the HAL-built HTT-40 basic trainers in its fleet and it would get 70 of these indigenous planes. Following the changes in the trainer fleet, IAF has changed the rookie pilots training program into a two-stage training, instead of the previously three-stage training, and the first batch of trainee pilots are going through this changed training schedules already.
Here is the part-2 of the interview:
Q. During the AeroIndia-2015, the BAE Systems came to the show with a static display of an armed Hawk AJT. Is the Indian Air Force considering weaponizing the Hawks and if so, what are the combat roles you think you can use this sub-sonic trainer for?
A. We already have an operational role for the Hawk Mk-132 aircraft. A proposal for avionics upgrade of Hawk Mk-132 aircraft that will give the aircraft enhanced combat capability is under consideration at Air HQ.
Q. How is the negotiation with Russia regarding the FGFA progressing and has India whittled down its requirement for the FGFA? How many number of FGFA would form part of the Indian Air Force’s combat fleet? Have issues such as work share resolved on the FGFA program? What all has been achieved in the program till date and what more work is required to be completed on the FGFA? What’s the next step in the FGFA agreement?
A. The Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for development and production of FGFA was signed on Oct.18, 2007 between India and Russia. The IGA had envisaged equal participation and funding by Indian and Russian sides in this project. There are certain issues involving technical features, cost and delivery timelines, which are being addressed at the highest level.
Q. In January 2015, the HAL handed over a LSP version of the Tejas to the Indian Air Force. Have you flown the aircraft and checked its performance? Is the Air Force satisfied with its performance? When would the first and the second LCA MkI squadron be raised? With the Air Force having no control over the LCA program’s progress, how do you get the HAL to meet the schedules of the Tejas MkII development? How many squadrons of LCA MkII do you envisage having in the IAF? What are the operational limitations that the MkII of the aircraft may come with?
A. The documents for the first series production LCA Mk-1 were handed over to IAF on 17 January 2015; however, the aircraft is yet to be delivered to IAF. We will be in a position to form the first LCA Squadron after receipt of the first four LCA, which is now expected in 2016. The LCA Mk-2 was envisaged to overcome certain shortfalls related to performance, self-protection suite and maintainability aspects of LCA Mk-1. The LCA Mk-2 is at the D&D stage and delivery timelines cannot be estimated at this stage.
Q. The present Indian government seems to be moving ahead with the plan to establish a tri-services Aerospace Command and the Air Force seems to be the one that would steer this Command. What capabilities would be at the command of this higher formation in the Indian defence establishment? What sort of operations would it conduct?
A. Government is actively considering setting up of the Aerospace Command to look after the critical requirements of the Armed Forces. The proposals are being processed through HQ IDS and MoD. After its approval from the government, this Command will be established in due course of time. However, in the interim Defence Space Agency is being set up at HQ IDS and its Charter of Responsibilities are being worked out.
Q. How seriously are you considering having ISTAR aircraft from the U.S. in your fleet, as it was suggested during U.S. Defence Secretary Ashton Carter’s visit to India earlier this year?
A. The IAF is serious about procurement of ISTAR aircraft. Various options are under consideration.
Q. What’s been the progress on the Air Force’s requirement for more AWACS, beyond the three that you already have mounted on the IL-76 platform? What is your assessment on the requirement for such platforms, including the AEW&CS for the Indian Air Force? Do you foresee the use of more Aerostats and such airborne radars in ISR roles and what could be your ISR platforms requirement, say in 2030?
A. We have already inducted three IL-76 based AWACS and are in the process of procuring another two. The Embraer based AEW&C aircraft is nearing completion of its flight testing. The indigenous AWACS programme, AWACS (India), is currently at contract negotiation stage. We had inducted two Aerostat systems in May 2002. A case is being processed to procure additional Aerostats.
Q. The Air Force’s program to procure the Apache attack helicopters and the Chinook heavy lift helicopters have gone through and you have signed the contract. What could be the possible requirement of the IAF for more attack helicopters, if the Indian Army’s Aviation Wing would henceforth have their own attack helicopter fleet for close air support roles? Could you provide an estimate of what the fleet strength of the attack helicopters is, including the two existing Russian platforms?
A. The IAF’s requirement of the attack helicopters is independent of the Army Aviation Wing’s procurements. Our attack helicopters have a clearly defined role in our operational plans. Support to the Army is one of these roles. We intend to have three helicopter units equipped with attack helicopters to meet all envisaged operational roles, including AD against slow-moving aircraft during peacetime.
Q. The Air Force is said to have recommended the termination of the IJT program by HAL. This gap in the need for a Stage-II trainer jet will plague the Air Force for some time to come. What are the alternatives you are looking at to meet the rookie pilot’s Stage-II training, apart from the continued use of Kiran HJTs?
A. The Pilatus PC-7 Basic Trainer Aircraft and Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer are already fully integrated into the IAF’s training pattern. Both these trainer aircraft are supported by their respective Simulators. Hence, IAF has initiated the process for conducting a flying training pattern based on two aircraft types: viz PC-7 Mk-II and HAWK AJT, to replace the ‘three aircraft – three stages’ programme that had so far been in place. Limited numbers of flight cadets have already started training on this pattern, i.e., Stage II (Fighter Stream) on the PC-7 and the number of trainees will gradually go up with increase in the number of PC-7 Mk-II aircraft.
Q. Considering the possible force accretion to match the sanctioned fleet strength, would the IAF have a requirement for more Basic Trainers and Advanced Jet Trainers to train rookie pilots? How have you been managing your pilots training programs and schedules, despite the shortages in the Stage-I, II and III trainers? How are delivery scheduled for the PC-7 Mk II and the Hawk AJTs keeping pace? Are you still interested in HTT-40?
A. IAF has a requirement of 183 Basic Trainer Aircraft (BTA). 75 Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II BTA have already been contracted and all aircraft will be delivered by October this year. Additional 38 Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II aircraft are being procured under the Option Clause. HAL built HTT-40 is planned to meet the requirement of the remaining 70 BTAs for the IAF. The first flight of the HAL-built HTT-40 that was earlier expected in June 2015 has now been re-scheduled to December 2015. The requirement of Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) aircraft is being met through the Hawk Mk-132 aircraft of which adequate numbers have been contracted. Considering the excellent performance of the PC-7 Mk-II BTA and Hawk Mk-132 AJT, IAF has initiated a process for conducting two-aircraft flying training pattern on the PC-7 Mk-II and HAWK AJT, instead of the three aircraft–three stage programme in place till now.
Q. Since you have begun phasing out the MiG-21s and MiG-27 squadrons already, would this affect the training schedule of rookie fighter pilots on supersonic aircraft? What is the aircraft you have in mind to introduce the rookie combat pilots to train on supersonic aircraft?
A. After training on Hawk AJT, the majority of the young fighter pilots are posted to certain earmarked operational training Squadrons of IAF. Supersonic training is part and parcel of operational training in all these Squadrons.
Q. The Air Force’s plans to procure more mid-air refuelers hasn’t been heard of for such a long while, even after selecting a platform that suits your requirement nearly three years ago. What do you intend to do with that procurement plan? How increasingly do you feel the need for more midair refueller fleet, considering that your combat planes keep flying out of the country to participate in bilateral air exercises with several nations these days and even for training and other actual missions?
A. In the future, most of the combat aircraft in the IAF inventory will be Air-to-Air Refuelling capable. Hence, procurement of additional FRA will significantly enhance the capability and reach of the IAF within our area of interest. The case for the procurement of additional Flight Refuelling Aircraft (FRA) is at the contract negotiation stage.
Arming India
NEW DELHI, OCT.3, 2015: The Indian Air Force (IAF) leadership has gone public with the poor operational availability of its frontline Su-30MKI fighter fleet, which is reported to be as low as 50 per cent. Also, for the first time, the IAF complained bitterly about the quality of this fighter.
"There are issues about repair, overhaul, turn-around time and supply of spares by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)," complained IAF chief Arup Raha, at a press conference ahead of Air Force Day. The IAF has contracted for 272 Su-30MKI fighters, most of which are being license-produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
In an exclusive interview ahead of his press conference, Raha had told Arming India that the IAF intended to have a total of 13 squadrons equipped with the Su-30 MKI aircraft. "There are certain slippages in delivery, but they are not alarming and are being addressed through measures at the appropriate levels," he had said about the Su-30MKI program.
Illustrating the benefits of ample supply of spares, Raha said the IAF's Su-30MKI complement for the recently-conducted 'Exercise Indradhanush' in Britain did not miss a single mission because of sufficient spares back-up. "There was 100 per cent availability of our aircraft during this exercise," he recalled. Efforts are being made to increase the supply of spares.
The IAF chief also flagged problems in the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) with Russia. "There are issues related to work share, technology, costs and time frame. The matter has been taken up at the highest level," he said.
Despite intimate ties, such issues demonstrate the edgy relationship with Russian entities at a functional level. Last year, a public spat broke out between the IAF and the Russian OEM, after an "involuntary" crash of an IAF Su-30MKI at Pune, over the reason for the accident. The IAF maintains that there's a history of "involuntary ejections" with the Su-30. Both the pilots were ejected as they were preparing to land at the Lohegaon airbase in Pune, leading to the crash.
Arming India
Rafale Induction Will Arrest Draw-Down of Combat Fleet: ACM Arup Raha
By Arming India Correspondent
NEW DELHI, OCT.2, 2015: India's air force has placed its bets on the Rafale combat plane induction in the near future to stem the rapid depletion of its combat strength and is hoping that the contracts for the French aircraft are signed at the earliest. It also envisages achieving the sanctioned strength of 42 combat squadrons by 2027, to be ready to meet a possible two-front war threat.
The Indian Air Force is also working alongside the Defense, Home Affairs and Civil Aviation ministries to work out a regulatory mechanism for unregulated flying objects that pose a threat to the safety and security of vital installations in India, a full 15 years after the 9/11 attacks in New York, says Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha in an exclusive interview to Arming India.
Here goes the part-1 of the two-part interview given ahead of the Air Force Day on Oct.8:
Q. We’ve recently witnessed the 50th anniversary of the 1965 Indo-Pak War. It’s also provided a moment of introspection. What are the priorities which need immediate attention of the decision-makers in the context of current challenges? What are the challenges and shortfalls which need immediate attention?
A. IAF is a technology intensive organization and skill development is a long drawn process. Our major challenge has always been to synchronize these two for optimum results. As a result of our critical self-analysis, we, as an organization are focusing on processes rather than events. Our operational capability is dependent on five verticals, namely equipment, training, procedures, infrastructure and force application, based on knowledge and in-depth analysis. Our capability at any instance is governed by the vertical least developed. Therefore, our endeavor is to keep all the verticals moving up in sync. We are aggressively pursuing our acquisitions and simultaneously changing our training philosophy and operational procedures to exploit our equipment profile fully. While infrastructure is being developed on ground to assist aerospace operations, minds are being trained for holistic capability development.
Q. Similarly, what are the emerging future security challenges, say 20-30 years from now, for the IAF that your crystal gazing is throwing up, and what are your thoughts on how to counter these future threats? After the 9/11 attacks in New York, the possibility of an aerial asymmetric warfare by either state or non-state actors became a reality? What’s the next big threat today, in your assessment?
A. Security challenges are extremely dynamic in nature and so are the responses to them. Instead of crystal gazing to assess ‘likely threats’ over a period of 20-30 years, we undertake a process based enhancement of our capability. IAF is focusing on ‘Men, Machine and Methods’. It has constantly believed that by making wise investments in these three areas, we will not only be ready for the existing threats but will also be well prepared to anticipate and respond to future challenges including those from non-state actors. The threat from un-regulated flying objects and machines has emerged very clearly. The MoD/IAF is coordinating with MoCA and MHA to establish proper regulations and control to counter the threat.
Q. How would you compare IAF’s combat, air defense, military transport, ISR capabilities with that of Pakistan Air Force and Chinese PLAAF? What would you suggest should be the Indian strategy to match capability or to counter the threats arising out of India’s traditional rival’s capabilities?
A. Threat and security assessment is a natural and on-going process for a country to ensure its national security. We are enhancing our capability to meet various multi-dimensional threats that we may have to address in the future. Our modernization plan and infrastructure development is in sync with our endeavor to retain a ‘Combat and Capability Edge’. IAF’s focus is on its Capability Enhancement and is not country-specific
Q. The Air Force’s fighter squadron strength, which is one of the parameters to measure the air power that India wields in the region, is at a low. It may not, at present, be at an all-time low vis-à-vis the sanctioned fleet strength. But in the due course of the next five to seven years, it could actually touch an all-time low. Is this a fair assessment? Could you please explain how this process of force level depletion is happening? What would be its effects on the Air Force’s ability to perform its role in the overall security architecture of India? Also, how do you plan to mitigate the situation? What are the likely impediments to the mitigation process?
A. Presently, IAF has 35 active fighter Squadrons against Government authorized strength of 42 Squadrons. The reduction in the strength of fighter Squadrons is due to obsolescence over a period of time. The shortfall in fighter aircraft strength is planned to be made good through induction of the remaining contracted Su-30 MKI, LCA, Rafale and other suitable fighter aircraft. We are also ensuring higher availability of aircraft through better maintenance and logistics management. The Government is aware of the need and the right decisions will be taken to meet our defence requirements. The IAF expects to achieve the sanctioned strength of 42 Fighter Squadrons by the end of the 14th Plan period.
Q. What are your force accretion plans? When and how would you achieve a stage when force accretions will begin to happen? How would you sustain that pace of growth of the combat fleet for the long term, say 2030, 2040 and 2050? What’s your desired end-state in terms of your combat fleet strength? How would you maintain those force levels after you have achieved it?
A. Force accretion is a process which is already in progress as part of the long term capability enhancement vision of the IAF. The capability building of the IAF has received a boost during the current Plan period and I am sure that we will be able to sustain the rate in future as well. We aim to achieve the authorized strength of fighter Squadrons by the end of the 14th Plan period. The sustenance of any fleet is undertaken by following the best maintenance practices and supply chain management. We also undertake mid-life upgrades on fleets in order to enhance their operational capability and relevance. The desired end-state is the capability to undertake full-spectrum operations in the most effective manner in a networked environment. The Government and IAF are committed to ensure that the capability build-up and its sustenance are met through indigenous sources to the maximum extent possible.
Q. Against the backdrop of the retraction of the 2007 MMRCA tender after a long-winding haggling process since Rafale was selected as the L-1 in 2012, what are your expectations from the 36-Rafale government-to-government contract that India is negotiating with France, in terms of how quickly the negotiations could be completed, the deal signed, and the deliveries begin? What are the specific issues that are currently under discussion between the two nation’s negotiation committees? Could you elaborate on the key issues under discussion?
A. The contract negotiations for the 126 MMRCA had reached a stalemate and the process was not making any headway for almost two years. Realizing the ‘Critical Operational Necessity’ of fighter aircraft in the IAF and likelihood of further delays in concluding the MMRCA contract negotiations, the Government decided to procure 36 Rafale aircraft from France through an Inter-Government route. The induction of these aircraft will assist the IAF in arresting the draw down in the number of combat squadrons. The negotiations for the procurement of 36 Rafale aircraft along with Weapons, Sensors and Counter-measures packages are in progress with the French.
Q. Air Force’s requirement under the now-terminated MMRCA tender was 126 aircraft with an option for 63-plane follow-on order. Are these the present requirement too for this class of an aircraft in the Air Force fleet? If yes, how do you plan to make up for the numbers? If no, then what is the number you are looking to procure? What are your alternative plans if you intend to stop the Rafale fleet at 36 planes?
A. The present case is for the procurement of 36 Rafale aircraft. The Government is aware of our requirements and would take a decision on induction of additional fighter aircraft in due course.
Q. There have been references to Su-30 MKI’s capability shortfall in an one-on-one dogfight during a close air combat vis-à-vis Pakistan Air Force’s F-16 C/D, primarily due to the latter’s EW strength? Is that assessment correct and if so, doesn’t this situation pose a limitation on Indian Su-30 MKI fleet countering the PAF’s F-16 fleet? What’s IAF’s counter within its fleet to that capability in the rival’s fleet?
A. Su-30 MKI is a potent platform and is capable of meeting all our operational requirements including those in a one-to-one combat scenario. Our forces have been participating in international exercises with friendly Air Forces against front line state-of the art fighter aircraft, which has provided insight into their capability and operational philosophy. The Su-30 has always performed well during such bi-lateral and multi-lateral Air Force level exercises.
Q. What’s going to be the final number of Su-30 MKI squadrons in the Air Force? How are inductions keeping pace with your plans? Have you overcome the issues of new Sukhoi bases not having shelters for the aircraft that are being deployed in the North East, such as in Tezpur or Chabua?
A. We intend to have a total of 13 squadrons equipped with the Su-30 MKI aircraft. There are certain slippages in delivery but they are not alarming and are being addressed through measures at the appropriate levels.
Q. Would the IAF consider procuring some of the other contenders in the now dead MMRCA tender, such as F-16, Eurofighter Typhoon, Saab or MiG-35 to meet the gap in the combat fleet requirement?
A. These aircraft are state-of-the-art fighters being operated by several Air Forces the world over. However, the IAF is not considering any such proposal at the moment. The Government will take a decision on induction of additional fighter aircraft in due course of time.
Q. Is a light, single-engine combat aircraft requirement of the IAF real? If so, could you confirm if the IAF is examining the offer from Saab for Gripen or Textron for the Scorpion or any other plane in the category to meet this requirement?
A. The IAF fighter fleet will be a mix of light, single-engine aircraft and multi-role twin-engine aircraft that will enable us to prosecute air operations across the entire spectrum of conflicts.
Arming India
Defense Space Agency Coming Up As An Interim Before Aerospace Command: ACM Arup Raha
By Arming India Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Oct.2, 2015: India is establishing a Defense Space Agency (DSA) as an interim arrangement ahead of the government approval for setting up of the ambitious tri-services Aerospace Command, on the lines of the U.S. Air Force's Aerospace Command. The Headquarters of the Integrated Defense Staff (HQ IDS) is working out the charter of responsibilities of the DSA, even as the Narendra Modi government is actively considering the setting up of the Aerospace Command.
Indian Air Force (IAF) is also seriously considering a combat role for its fleet of BAE Systems' Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers (AJTs) that would number about 126, including the 20 that would be operated by the Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team. This will happen after the Hawk fleet goes through an avionics upgrade program, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha said in an exclusive interview to Arming India here ahead of the Air Force Day on Oct.8.
Meanwhile, the India-Russia Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program is in trouble over differences between the two sides on the aircraft's technical features, costs and delivery schedule. IAF also plans to have just three attack helicopter units to perform all envisaged roles, including support to the Indian Army.
The IAF has, finally, agreed to have the HAL-built HTT-40 basic trainers in its fleet and it would get 70 of these indigenous planes. Following the changes in the trainer fleet, IAF has changed the rookie pilots training program into a two-stage training, instead of the previously three-stage training, and the first batch of trainee pilots are going through this changed training schedules already.
Here is the part-2 of the interview:
Q. During the AeroIndia-2015, the BAE Systems came to the show with a static display of an armed Hawk AJT. Is the Indian Air Force considering weaponizing the Hawks and if so, what are the combat roles you think you can use this sub-sonic trainer for?
A. We already have an operational role for the Hawk Mk-132 aircraft. A proposal for avionics upgrade of Hawk Mk-132 aircraft that will give the aircraft enhanced combat capability is under consideration at Air HQ.
Q. How is the negotiation with Russia regarding the FGFA progressing and has India whittled down its requirement for the FGFA? How many number of FGFA would form part of the Indian Air Force’s combat fleet? Have issues such as work share resolved on the FGFA program? What all has been achieved in the program till date and what more work is required to be completed on the FGFA? What’s the next step in the FGFA agreement?
A. The Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for development and production of FGFA was signed on Oct.18, 2007 between India and Russia. The IGA had envisaged equal participation and funding by Indian and Russian sides in this project. There are certain issues involving technical features, cost and delivery timelines, which are being addressed at the highest level.
Q. In January 2015, the HAL handed over a LSP version of the Tejas to the Indian Air Force. Have you flown the aircraft and checked its performance? Is the Air Force satisfied with its performance? When would the first and the second LCA MkI squadron be raised? With the Air Force having no control over the LCA program’s progress, how do you get the HAL to meet the schedules of the Tejas MkII development? How many squadrons of LCA MkII do you envisage having in the IAF? What are the operational limitations that the MkII of the aircraft may come with?
A. The documents for the first series production LCA Mk-1 were handed over to IAF on 17 January 2015; however, the aircraft is yet to be delivered to IAF. We will be in a position to form the first LCA Squadron after receipt of the first four LCA, which is now expected in 2016. The LCA Mk-2 was envisaged to overcome certain shortfalls related to performance, self-protection suite and maintainability aspects of LCA Mk-1. The LCA Mk-2 is at the D&D stage and delivery timelines cannot be estimated at this stage.
Q. The present Indian government seems to be moving ahead with the plan to establish a tri-services Aerospace Command and the Air Force seems to be the one that would steer this Command. What capabilities would be at the command of this higher formation in the Indian defence establishment? What sort of operations would it conduct?
A. Government is actively considering setting up of the Aerospace Command to look after the critical requirements of the Armed Forces. The proposals are being processed through HQ IDS and MoD. After its approval from the government, this Command will be established in due course of time. However, in the interim Defence Space Agency is being set up at HQ IDS and its Charter of Responsibilities are being worked out.
Q. How seriously are you considering having ISTAR aircraft from the U.S. in your fleet, as it was suggested during U.S. Defence Secretary Ashton Carter’s visit to India earlier this year?
A. The IAF is serious about procurement of ISTAR aircraft. Various options are under consideration.
Q. What’s been the progress on the Air Force’s requirement for more AWACS, beyond the three that you already have mounted on the IL-76 platform? What is your assessment on the requirement for such platforms, including the AEW&CS for the Indian Air Force? Do you foresee the use of more Aerostats and such airborne radars in ISR roles and what could be your ISR platforms requirement, say in 2030?
A. We have already inducted three IL-76 based AWACS and are in the process of procuring another two. The Embraer based AEW&C aircraft is nearing completion of its flight testing. The indigenous AWACS programme, AWACS (India), is currently at contract negotiation stage. We had inducted two Aerostat systems in May 2002. A case is being processed to procure additional Aerostats.
Q. The Air Force’s program to procure the Apache attack helicopters and the Chinook heavy lift helicopters have gone through and you have signed the contract. What could be the possible requirement of the IAF for more attack helicopters, if the Indian Army’s Aviation Wing would henceforth have their own attack helicopter fleet for close air support roles? Could you provide an estimate of what the fleet strength of the attack helicopters is, including the two existing Russian platforms?
A. The IAF’s requirement of the attack helicopters is independent of the Army Aviation Wing’s procurements. Our attack helicopters have a clearly defined role in our operational plans. Support to the Army is one of these roles. We intend to have three helicopter units equipped with attack helicopters to meet all envisaged operational roles, including AD against slow-moving aircraft during peacetime.
Q. The Air Force is said to have recommended the termination of the IJT program by HAL. This gap in the need for a Stage-II trainer jet will plague the Air Force for some time to come. What are the alternatives you are looking at to meet the rookie pilot’s Stage-II training, apart from the continued use of Kiran HJTs?
A. The Pilatus PC-7 Basic Trainer Aircraft and Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer are already fully integrated into the IAF’s training pattern. Both these trainer aircraft are supported by their respective Simulators. Hence, IAF has initiated the process for conducting a flying training pattern based on two aircraft types: viz PC-7 Mk-II and HAWK AJT, to replace the ‘three aircraft – three stages’ programme that had so far been in place. Limited numbers of flight cadets have already started training on this pattern, i.e., Stage II (Fighter Stream) on the PC-7 and the number of trainees will gradually go up with increase in the number of PC-7 Mk-II aircraft.
Q. Considering the possible force accretion to match the sanctioned fleet strength, would the IAF have a requirement for more Basic Trainers and Advanced Jet Trainers to train rookie pilots? How have you been managing your pilots training programs and schedules, despite the shortages in the Stage-I, II and III trainers? How are delivery scheduled for the PC-7 Mk II and the Hawk AJTs keeping pace? Are you still interested in HTT-40?
A. IAF has a requirement of 183 Basic Trainer Aircraft (BTA). 75 Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II BTA have already been contracted and all aircraft will be delivered by October this year. Additional 38 Pilatus PC-7 Mk-II aircraft are being procured under the Option Clause. HAL built HTT-40 is planned to meet the requirement of the remaining 70 BTAs for the IAF. The first flight of the HAL-built HTT-40 that was earlier expected in June 2015 has now been re-scheduled to December 2015. The requirement of Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) aircraft is being met through the Hawk Mk-132 aircraft of which adequate numbers have been contracted. Considering the excellent performance of the PC-7 Mk-II BTA and Hawk Mk-132 AJT, IAF has initiated a process for conducting two-aircraft flying training pattern on the PC-7 Mk-II and HAWK AJT, instead of the three aircraft–three stage programme in place till now.
Q. Since you have begun phasing out the MiG-21s and MiG-27 squadrons already, would this affect the training schedule of rookie fighter pilots on supersonic aircraft? What is the aircraft you have in mind to introduce the rookie combat pilots to train on supersonic aircraft?
A. After training on Hawk AJT, the majority of the young fighter pilots are posted to certain earmarked operational training Squadrons of IAF. Supersonic training is part and parcel of operational training in all these Squadrons.
Q. The Air Force’s plans to procure more mid-air refuelers hasn’t been heard of for such a long while, even after selecting a platform that suits your requirement nearly three years ago. What do you intend to do with that procurement plan? How increasingly do you feel the need for more midair refueller fleet, considering that your combat planes keep flying out of the country to participate in bilateral air exercises with several nations these days and even for training and other actual missions?
A. In the future, most of the combat aircraft in the IAF inventory will be Air-to-Air Refuelling capable. Hence, procurement of additional FRA will significantly enhance the capability and reach of the IAF within our area of interest. The case for the procurement of additional Flight Refuelling Aircraft (FRA) is at the contract negotiation stage.
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