ThePrint NationalInterest: A tribute to Tejas. India’s delay culture is the real enemy in the skies
Nov 22, 2025
The recent crash of the Tejas fighter jet raises critical questions about the preparedness of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The discussion highlights the unique pressures faced by the IAF, including limited resources and geopolitical challenges. There's a deep dive into the timeline of the Tejas program, showcasing delays that have hindered its operational readiness. Political interference compounded issues, while the evolution of adversarial airpower demands immediate attention. Ultimately, the loss serves as a call for reflection and necessary reform in India's defense strategies.
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Shock And The IAF’s Resilience
- The Tejas crash at the Dubai Airshow and the pilot's death are a shattering moment for India.
- Shekhar Gupta stresses the IAF's toughness and capacity to recover immediately from such setbacks.
IAF's Unique Operational Profile
- The IAF is distinct because it is the first responder, has a tight combat officer community, and is highly technology dependent.
- These traits make its needs and vulnerabilities different from the Army and Navy, limiting simple numerical fixes.
Technology Beats Numbers In Air Power
- The IAF cannot rely on sheer numbers to cover technology gaps the way other services sometimes can.
- Rival states like Pakistan can close gaps quickly because air combat capital costs are lower and external suppliers like China help them catch up.