# Indian Air Force indigenous defense development

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/indian-air-force-indigenous-defense-development
> Updated: 2026-08-13T05:16:02.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is focusing on enhancing its domestic aerospace capabilities and modernizing its training infrastructure.

Air Chief Marshal Amar Birath Singh has called for the accelerated development of indigenous fighter programs, specifically noting delays with the Tejas aircraft. He emphasized the importance of increasing the use of locally produced components to ensure domestic efforts are not outpaced by foreign technology.

Following these calls for modernization, the IAF has initiated a procurement process for 150 advanced jet trainers (AJT). This initiative aims to replace the aging BAE Hawk Mk-132 fleet and prepare pilots for modern platforms like the Rafale and Tejas. Adhering to a ‘Buy (Indian) or better’ policy, the procurement process prioritizes indigenous manufacturing and requires foreign manufacturers to integrate production and supply-chain activities within India.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-13: Indian Air Force seeks 150 advanced jet trainers

The Indian Air Force has issued a Request for Information to acquire 150 advanced jet trainers to replace its Hawk fleet and prepare pilots for modern fighter aircraft like the Rafale and Tejas.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/indian-air-force-seeks-150-advanced-jet-trainers

### 2026-07-21: Indian Air Force chief urges faster development of indigenous fighter jet

Air Chief Marshal Amar Birath Singh urged the Indian Air Force to accelerate the indigenous Tejas fighter program, stressing domestic component use and inter‑service coordination.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/indian-air-force-chief-urges-faster-development-of-indigenous-fighter-jet

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Cite as: Indian Air Force indigenous defense development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/indian-air-force-indigenous-defense-development