Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has said the force may have to consider a foreign fighter option if delays affect the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme. Speaking at his annual press conference in New Delhi, Singh said Russia has offered the Su-57, although no decision has been taken on acquiring the Russian fifth-generation fighter. He also said the IAF wants to increase the number of aircraft in its inventory as it works to address its fighter fleet shortfall.
The comments come as the IAF operates around 30 fighter squadrons against an authorised strength of about 42, while several existing aircraft are approaching retirement and maintaining older platforms is becoming increasingly difficult. The force is also pursuing additional Rafale fighters from France and has 180 indigenous LCA Mk1A aircraft on order.
