The Indian Air Force (IAF) is on the cusp of a significant modernization milestone. After a 16-month wait, India on Tuesday finally received the first three of the six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing, with the Indian army describing its arrival as a "milestone moment".

IAF prepares to phase out its aging fleet of MiG-21 fighter jets by September 2025. This move marks the end of an era for an aircraft that has served the nation for over six decades and will pave the way for the indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A to become a cornerstone of India's air power.

The Sunset of a "Flying Coffin"

First inducted in 1963, the Soviet-origin MiG-21 was India's first supersonic jet and formed the backbone of the IAF for decades. It played crucial roles in the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pakistan wars, the 1999 Kargil War, and even the 2019 Balakot airstrike. Over 872 MiG-21s have been progressively inducted into the IAF, with a significant number produced domestically by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

However, the aircraft has earned the unfortunate moniker of "flying coffin" due to an alarmingly high crash rate in recent years. Since 1971-72, over 400 MiG-21s have been lost in accidents, resulting in the deaths of over 200 pilots and 50 civilians on the ground.

Despite upgrades to the 'Bison' variant, the aging jets continued to lack modern safety mechanisms. The decision to retire the remaining two squadrons, totaling 36 fighters, at Rajasthan's Nal Air Force base by September 2025 comes after repeated deferrals, primarily due to delays in the replacement program and the IAF's dwindling squadron strength. The ceremonial farewell for the MiG-21s is expected to take place in Chandigarh on September 19, 2025.

The Dawn of the Tejas Mk1A Era

The void left by the MiG-21s will be filled by the Tejas Mk1A, a more advanced and capable version of the indigenous Tejas LCA. This marks a crucial step towards "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) in defence manufacturing.

Key developments and features of the Tejas Mk1A:

Replacement Role: The Tejas Mk1A is specifically designed to replace the MiG-21s in all their current squadrons.
Production Ramp-up: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is actively working to accelerate Tejas production. The first Tejas Mk1A from HAL's Nashik production line is expected to be rolled out by the end of July 2025. This marks HAL's third production facility, alongside two existing lines in Bengaluru. HAL plans to increase annual production to 30 aircraft by 2026-27.
Private Sector Involvement: To augment production capacity, HAL is extensively leveraging a private-sector supply chain. Companies like Larsen & Toubro (L&T) have already handed over the first set of wing assemblies for the LCA Mk1A in July 2025, and VEM Technologies delivered the first centre fuselage assembly in May 2025.
Engine Deliveries: While initial deliveries of the General Electric F404-IN20 engines, which power the Tejas Mk1A, faced delays due to supply chain disruptions, GE Aerospace has ramped up deliveries. HAL received the second F404 engine in July 2025, with plans for 10 engines by the end of this year and 12 aircraft deliveries by year-end.
Advanced Capabilities: The Tejas Mk1A boasts upgraded avionics, an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, advanced electronic warfare capabilities, and an improved operational range. It will also integrate indigenous missiles like the Astra MkII Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM).
Squadron Induction: The IAF is set to establish its first Tejas Mk1A squadron in September 2025 at Nal (Bikaner) Air Force Station, a frontline airbase in the western sector. The initial squadron will comprise four Tejas Mk1A jets and a Tejas Trainer, with more expected by March 2026. Pilots from the No. 3 "Cobras" squadron are already undergoing training on older Tejas Mk1 jets to prepare for the new aircraft.

The Power of the Apache

Beyond the induction of the Tejas Mk1A, the Indian armed forces have significantly bolstered their rotary-wing combat capabilities with the induction of the AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. While the Indian Air Force has already been operating 22 Apache helicopters since mid-2020, the Indian Army recently inducted its first batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters on July 22, 2025, at Hindon Air Force Station. These "tanks in the air" will be deployed in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, marking a strategic shift to provide the ground forces with dedicated air support.

Key aspects of the Apache's role and capabilities

Specialized Roles: The IAF's Apache fleet is utilized for air defense and deep-strike roles, targeting enemy radar installations and command posts. In contrast, the Indian Army's Apaches will focus on close air support, tank-busting missions, and achieving battlefield dominance during armored engagements. This layered approach ensures comprehensive aerial support.
Lethal Firepower: The AH-64E Apache is among the world's most advanced multi-role attack helicopters, manufactured by Boeing. It is armed with fire-and-forget Hellfire missiles, Hydra 70 rockets, and a 30mm M230 chain gun. Its advanced systems allow it to track up to 128 targets per minute and prioritize threats.
Advanced Technology: The Apache boasts advanced digital connectivity, a Joint Tactical Information Distribution System, powerful T700-GE-701D engines, improved composite main rotor blades, and the crucial ability to control Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) mid-flight, enabling manned-unmanned teaming. It also features advanced night vision and all-weather targeting systems.
Strategic Impact: The induction of the Apaches significantly boosts India's offensive and reconnaissance capabilities, particularly along the western border and in challenging regions, contributing to both offensive and defensive military operations.

Addressing Squadron Strength and Future Plans

The retirement of the MiG-21s, even with the induction of Tejas Mk1A, will temporarily bring down the IAF's combat strength to 29 squadrons, a significant shortfall compared to the authorized 42.5 squadrons needed to address the collusive challenge from China and Pakistan. This highlights the urgency of the Tejas program and other ongoing modernization efforts.

Beyond the Tejas Mk1A, the IAF's modernization plans include:

More Tejas Variants: The IAF plans to induct a total of 352 Tejas aircraft from both the Mk1A and Mk2 variants.
Fifth-Generation Fighters: India is actively pursuing the development of a fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
Unmanned Systems: The IAF aims to acquire 30-50 small, medium, or large category Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) within the next three to five years for specific combat roles.
Air Defence and Surveillance: The Defence Acquisition Council has recently authorized significant capital acquisition proposals, including air defence systems, surveillance aircraft (ISTAR), and mid-air refuelers, worth over ₹1.05 lakh crore (US$12 billion).
Integration and Network-Centric Warfare: The IAF is focusing on a network-centric approach for real-time data sharing and integration with the Army and Navy, enhancing operational effectiveness through joint operations.

The phasing out of the MiG-21s and the simultaneous induction of the Tejas Mk1A mark a pivotal moment for the Indian Air Force. It represents a transition from reliance on foreign aircraft to bolstering indigenous capabilities, albeit with challenges in bridging the gap in squadron strength. This strategic shift is crucial for India to maintain its aerial dominance and ensure national security in an evolving geopolitical landscape.

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