Deals in the Air, Systems Nowhere: IAF Chief Laments Phantom Contracts

Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh delivered a stark reality check at the CII Annual Business Summit, pointing out that the Indian Air Force (IAF) often finds itself signing defense contracts even when it knows the promised systems won’t arrive on schedule. He highlighted ongoing delays in significant projects—especially the ₹48,000 crore Tejas Mk1A fighter jet deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)—and expressed disappointment that not a single project has met its delivery timeline. “Often, we’re aware when signing contracts that those systems will never come. Timelines are a major concern. Why should we commit to something that can’t be delivered?” he questioned, shedding light on a troubling culture of overpromising and underdelivering.

 

Singh’s comments come at a time of growing frustration over the slow progress in indigenous defense manufacturing, with none of the 83 Tejas Mk1A jets delivered yet and prototypes for next-generation fighters still absent. He called for a shift from just producing to truly designing and developing weapon systems in India, urging for more trust and transparency between the armed forces and the industry. Singh emphasized the urgent need for “now-ready” solutions to bolster India’s security, warning that future conflicts will be won by those who equip their forces with timely and reliable equipment.

 

Source: Business Standard