As MRFA program becoming unviable now; Time for the Indian Air Force to relook at joining Navy’s TEDBF Program

Source : IgMp Bureau

An Artistic CGI of Omni-Role Combat Aircraft, the Air Force version of Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) drawn by Kuntal Biswas

With delays mounting in the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) acquisition, concerns are intensifying within the Indian Air Force (IAF) about whether this long-awaited procurement will ever materialize. As time slips away, there is growing pressure for the IAF to reassess its priorities. Instead of waiting for the MRFA to progress, the IAF has an opportunity to collaborate with the Indian Navy's Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) project, creating a tailored Air Force version called the Omni-Role Combat Aircraft (ORCA). Initially proposed by both the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the ORCA was previously rejected by the IAF but may now offer a practical solution.

The indigenous TEDBF program not only presents a viable option for both services but also fits with India's self-reliance goals. A close analysis of the TEDBF and the Rafale aircraft reveals similar specifications, indicating that TEDBF could satisfy many IAF requirements at a fraction of the cost while offering strategic advantages.

The MRFA program, which aims to procure 114 foreign fighter jets to replace aging MiG aircraft, has been stuck in bureaucratic delays for years. Despite interest from various manufacturers and repeated calls from IAF Chiefs to expedite the process, progress has been minimal.

The estimated cost of acquiring 114 foreign jets, between $20–25 billion, is a significant financial burden. With other critical defense needs competing for funds, the government has become hesitant to commit such a large sum to one project.

An Artistic CGI of Omni-Role Combat Aircraft, the Air Force version of Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) drawn by Kuntal Biswas

Geopolitical factors and India’s "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative have further complicated matters, adding pressure to justify such an expensive foreign purchase.

As the MRFA tender struggles, the IAF should consider the Navy’s TEDBF program, which is advancing steadily. Developed by ADA and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), TEDBF is a 4.5-generation fighter built for aircraft carrier operations. While it’s intended to replace the Navy’s MiG-29Ks, the TEDBF’s design and features also align with the IAF’s needs.

By developing a single platform for both services, India could save billions in development and procurement costs. Instead of relying on expensive imports, the IAF could invest in a domestic fighter that can be customized to its specifications.

The TEDBF is being developed with substantial Indian industrial involvement, supporting the nation’s aerospace sector. By joining the program, the IAF would further strengthen India’s defense industry and contribute to long-term self-reliance in critical technologies.

The TEDBF’s multi-role design, capable of air superiority and ground attack missions, makes it an ideal replacement for the IAF’s aging MiG and Jaguar fleets. The F/A-18 Hornet, which originated as a naval fighter but was later adopted by air forces globally, offers a relevant example of how naval jets can successfully transition into air force roles.

An Artistic CGI of Omni-Role Combat Aircraft, the Air Force version of Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) drawn by Kuntal Biswas

Although the Dassault Rafale is a leading contender in the MRFA tender and has proven its capabilities, the TEDBF, which is still in development, could deliver similar performance at a much lower cost, with the added benefit of domestic production.

Why TEDBF is a Smart Option for the IAF

1. Strategic Independence: TEDBF offers India the chance to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers. While Rafale is a highly capable aircraft, it binds India to external supply chains, which may not always be reliable amid geopolitical tensions.

2. Indigenous Development: TEDBF is being developed domestically, which means the IAF would have greater control over its upgrades, modifications, and overall lifecycle management. Unlike the Rafale, which relies on foreign suppliers for spares and future enhancements, the TEDBF would be a fully indigenous solution, tailored to meet India’s specific defense needs.

3. Shared Logistics and Training: By aligning with the Navy’s TEDBF program, both the IAF and the Navy can benefit from shared logistics, maintenance infrastructure, and training programs. This will reduce overall operational costs and improve long-term efficiency. Collaboration between the two services could lead to better integration and resource optimization.

4. Cost Efficiency and Customization: The TEDBF can be designed with modularity in mind, making it adaptable to the IAF’s evolving needs. It is expected to feature advanced avionics, semi-stealth characteristics, and modern weapon systems that can match the capabilities of other 4.5-generation fighters. Furthermore, the platform could be upgraded to 5th-generation standards over time, ensuring it remains relevant for decades.

An Artistic CGI of Omni-Role Combat Aircraft, the Air Force version of Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) drawn by Kuntal Biswas

Given these advantages, the IAF must recognize that the window for the MRFA acquisition is closing. Waiting indefinitely for a foreign fighter procurement might leave the force unprepared for future challenges. Instead, by investing in the TEDBF program alongside the Navy, the IAF can secure a cost-effective and strategic alternative that not only meets its immediate fighter requirements but also aligns with India’s broader goal of defense self-reliance.

The TEDBF program represents a timely solution, offering substantial cost savings and greater control over the aircraft’s future upgrades. As the defense ecosystem continues to grow domestically, this collaboration between the Air Force and Navy would ensure a long-term, indigenous pathway for modernizing India’s fighter fleet. By moving forward with the TEDBF and its air force variant ORCA, the IAF can maintain its combat edge while reducing reliance on foreign manufacturers, positioning itself for greater independence in future defense needs.

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