India to Invite Bids for 114 Fighter Jets in 2025 to Strengthen IAF Squadrons

India is set to invite bids this year for 114 multi-role fighter jets as part of its initiative to strengthen the country's air combat fleet, according to two sources cited by Reuters.

Indian Air Force only has 31 squadrons against the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons. (Photo: Indian Air Force)

The acquisition, known as the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, has attracted interest from leading defense companies, including US-based Lockheed Martin and Boeing, France’s Dassault Aviation, the European Eurofighter consortium, Sweden’s Saab AB, and Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation.

Several of these companies, which initially responded to India's request for information in 2018, are now fine-tuning their bids, according to Reuters.

This development comes as the Indian Air Force (IAF) grapples with a squadron shortage, while regional adversaries China and Pakistan continue to enhance their air capabilities.

The IAF's fleet strength has declined to 31 squadrons, falling short of the approved 42.

The reduction in India's fighter jet fleet is primarily due to the aging Russian and Soviet-era aircraft, whereas China is steadily introducing advanced fighter jets and bolstering military support for Pakistan.

US, Russia, and other contenders

Lockheed Martin is promoting its F-21, a customized variant of the F-16 designed specifically for India, which would be manufactured locally through a partnership. The company has already set up a joint facility with India’s Tata Group in Hyderabad, where it produces F-16 wings and aims to extend production to the F-21.

Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that the U.S. would eventually sell F-35 stealth fighters to India. However, India’s foreign secretary later clarified that no formal process had been initiated.

Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) is likely to propose the Sukhoi Su-57, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, for India’s fighter jet procurement. The Su-57 is said to feature advanced engines, radar, and avionics, making it a significant upgrade over previous Russian models like the Su-35 and MiG-35.

While Russia has traditionally been India’s primary arms supplier, the Ukraine war has disrupted Moscow’s ability to provide spare parts and new equipment, prompting India to diversify its defense imports. At Aero India 2025, Russian officials showcased the Su-57 and reportedly offered to manufacture it in India, utilizing existing Su-30 production lines. India had previously planned to co-develop the Su-57, then known as the T-50, but abandoned the project over a decade ago.

Saab, which is pitching its JAS-39 Gripen E, has outlined a supply chain strategy for India and is actively seeking local partners, according to Kent-Åke Molin, head of the Gripen India campaign. Molin stated that Indian officials had reacted “very positively” to Saab’s proposal, highlighting the aircraft’s cost-effectiveness.

(This Article was originally published by First Post)