Faced with obsolescence, the IAF’s transport and helicopter fleet needs to undergo upgrade in systems, avionics, engines and life extension. The dilemma, of course, is to identify an agency to carry out the upgrade.

Preceding two editions of SP’s Aviation focused on upgrades carried out by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to its fighter aircraft. The chapters elaborated on the upgrade programmes conducted by India in the past, planning and considerations for upgrade, and, finally, fighter upgrade programmes. In the current issue, the focus is on transport and helicopters upgrade. But first, a synopsis of all that has been covered.

Past aircraft upgrade programmes: In the past, HAL, along with the IAF, has undertaken some very major modifications driven by urgent need. Installation of the Jet Pack on C-119 Packet transport aircraft, fitment of Orpheus engine in HJT-16 in place of the Viper engine were some of the major upgrades involving structural rework on the aircraft. Development of Ajeet aircraft from the original Folland Gnat and designing a two seat version can arguably be considered somewhere between new design and an upgrade.

Planning for upgrade: The Operations branch at the Air HQ is all the time evaluating the capability of the fleet vis-à-vis the perceived threat and the likely future tasks. There are a number of ways by which the user is able to identify the need to upgrade but foremost among them is the effectiveness of the fleet to meet the tasks as laid down in the War Plans. Upgrade of the air superiority and multi-role aircraft needs to be planned keeping in mind the extended role and the strategic reach required for future tasks.

Considerations for aircraft upgrade: Several key points need to be considered before deciding on fleet upgrade: