The Indian government is likely to issue an open tender for the purchase of 114 multirole fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This decision aligns with the IAF's projected requirements, and officials are considering a non-controversial approach to acquire these advanced planes, which must be manufactured in India.

The IAF has been advocating for the acquisition of these multirole fighters to strengthen its fleet, which has been struggling with a shortage of modern 4.5 generation aircraft. In response to urgent needs, the government previously procured 36 Rafale jets through emergency measures in 2016. However, this procurement faced controversy, leading to scrutiny in the Supreme Court concerning issues of national security.

Sources indicate that the government plans to adopt a multi-vendor tendering process for this acquisition under the "Make in India" initiative, emphasizing a commitment to domestic production over imports of major weapon systems. The government recognizes the frustrations expressed by the IAF due to the limited number of available aircraft and intends to make a well-considered decision soon.

When questioned about the possibility of acquiring additional Rafale jets, sources explained that the French manufacturer would require at least ten years to fulfill any new orders because of existing global demand.

The IAF had previously secured 36 Rafales through a direct government-to-government agreement in 2016, following their selection during the Congress-led multirole medium combat aircraft program. The deal attracted controversy amid allegations of corruption from opposition parties.

Currently, the IAF operates approximately 30 squadrons of fighter jets, including the Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29, many of which are nearing retirement in the next five to seven years. Additionally, the MiG-21s are expected to be phased out shortly. The IAF believes that acquiring advanced 4.5 generation aircraft is crucial for addressing challenges on both the northern and western fronts.

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