WEBDESK: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s much touted dream of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) has suffered a major blow as the future of the Indian Navy’s air power remains deeply uncertain.
According to defence reports, India’s flagship project to develop its own carrier-based fighter jet the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) has been stuck in delays and design hurdles for more than a decade. Key technical reviews are still incomplete. The first test flight is not expected until 2029–2030, with possible induction only around 2038.
The Indian Navy had earlier rejected the Tejas Mk-1 for naval operations due to its excessive weight and limited payload capacity. Even proposals for its restricted deployment were dismissed. The Navy has also shown no interest in the Tejas Mk-2 (Naval), choosing instead to pin its hopes on the more capable but long-delayed TEDBF programme.
Analysts warn that the TEDBF will already be outdated by the time it enters service. China has inducted fifth-generation fighters such as the J-20 and J-35, while India may still be waiting for a 4.5- generation aircraft. This gap leaves the Indian Navy at a serious disadvantage in the region.
Meanwhile, India has sought refuge in overseas manufacturers as had just recently received 26 Rafale M fighters of France. Analysts point out that such dependence defeats the entire spirit of the TEDBF project and raises doubt on India in terms of its long-term defence independence.
Critics also say that the Modi government of mismanagement, cronyism, and favouritism towards big business sectors by awarding those groups with defence contracts in the cost of the capability in the country. With Tejas being a flop, LCA Mk-I A failing to materialise, and the TEDBF stalled on schedule, the situation of Indian Navy airpower seems to be one of a standstill.
India’s much-publicised march towards ‘Atmanirbhar’ defence is now looking more like a fragile dream than a concrete reality.
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