While the IAF is embarked on a comprehensive transformation, its efforts could be jeopardised in the absence of a correctly structured training pattern supported by aircraft of the right type and in the right numbers

On the occasion of the 79th anniversary last month, the top brass of the Indian Air Force (IAF) once again reiterated the fact that the fourth largest air force in the world is in the process of modernisation, “inducting state-of-the-art platforms, weapon systems and allied equipment to transform itself into a potent strategic force with full spectrum capability”. It has also been stated by the Minister of Defence A.K. Antony that over the next decade, the number of fighter squadrons in the IAF is to go up from the current level of 34 to 42. And by 2027, the combat fleet of the IAF is expected to have on its inventory around 250 to 300 fifth generation fighter aircraft, between 126 and 200 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA), 270 Sukhoi Su-30 MKI air dominance fighters and unspecified numbers of the indigenous light combat aircraft Tejas Mk II. In addition, the IAF will have a fleet of ten C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlift aircraft, 12 C-130J Super Hercules, 45 multi-role transport aircraft, a few squadrons of light transport aircraft, a sizeable fleet of helicopters numbering around 300 to 400 (including a mix of heavy lift, light utility and attack helicopters) and force multipliers such as the AWACS and flight refuelling aircraft. This formidable array of hardware would undoubtedly involve staggering levels of investment that could well be about $100 billion ( Rs. 5,00,000 crore).

While the government may, albeit with some difficulty, be able to muster the financial resources to enable the IAF translate its vision into reality, success of the process of transformation envisaged, also hinges on the quality of human resource. Aircraft, whether fighter, transport or helicopter, constitute the cutting edge of the force and require the best of engineers, technicians and pilots if their operational potential is to be optimised. It was only appropriate therefore that on assuming charge as the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), one of the first pronouncements on policy by Air Chief Marshal N.A.K. Browne, focused on human resource. He said, “Our people must receive our highest attention. In whatever capacity you serve in the IAF, you remain our most valuable asset.”

It is noteworthy that both the content and the timing of the statement by the CAS with regard to the focus on human resources are relevant and could not have come at a more appropriate time. This year, the IAF has already lost seven fighter aircraft, five of these falling out of the sky since the change of guard at Air Headquarters on July 31, 2011. As per reports, three of these mishaps are attributable to doubtful professional competence of the pilots commissioned in the recent past, a sad commentary indeed on the state of training.