About 25 years since the last major upgrade, the transport fleet of IAF is badly in need of not only upgradation but also a major transformation

The transport fleet of the IAF underwent a major upgradation in the early 1980s with the induction of 17 IL-76 (one and a half squadrons) strategic airlift aircraft with a payload capacity of 43 tonnes, 225 fully equipped troops or 140 paratroops. In the medium tactical transport aircraft category, the IAF acquired 110 An-32 aircraft (seven squadrons). With this, the IAF acquired the capability to carry out in a single wave, an airborne assault with a Battalion Group or air land a Brigade size force. These capabilities were effectively demonstrated in Sri Lanka and the Maldives in the late 1980s.

About 25 years since the last major upgrade, the IAF is badly in need of not only upgradation but also a major transformation. In the context of the enhanced responsibilities, the IAF needs to acquire the capability to undertake and support airborne assault operations with a Brigade Group or to air land a Division size force. As such operations may have to be mounted across our national frontiers anywhere in the region of interest; the IAF would need aircraft with the right attributes.

The IAF has identified the C-17 Globemaster III as the likely replacement for the IL-76 fleet. With more than twice the payload capacity of the IL-76 and transcontinental operational range, the C-17 will provide a quantum jump in strategic airlift capability provided the aircraft is acquired in the right numbers. The IAF is pitching for 10 of the mammoth machines for an investment estimated to be anywhere between $4.1billion (Rs. 18,450 crore) to $5.8 billion (Rs. 26,100 crore). The final outlay will depend not only on the numbers acquired but also on the structure of the package that could include performance based logistic support, a concept that is yet to be introduced in India. The IAF is contemplating purchase of another six at a later date. The total number of 16 could well be a reflection of the mindset related to current holdings. However, given the nation’s expanding strategic horizons, the total number acquired ought to be many times more. There is therefore business potential for not only Boeing but also for other players with the capability to manufacture strategic airlifters of comparable capability.