Rafale joins the list of fighter planes in the IAF, alongside Mirage, MiG and others

May 9, 2023

By: rahul.verma3@timesinternet.in

Credit: Pixabay

Fleet of fighter jets

The Indian Air Force (IAF) ranks as the world's fourth largest air force, boasting a total strength of approximately 139,576 active personnel, alongside 140,000 reserve personnel and a formidable fleet of over 1,850 aircraft. Today, let's explore vb the fighter jets currently deployed by the IAF.

Credit: Pixabay

SU-30 MKI

This is a twin-seater, twin-engine multi-role fighter aircraft originating from Russia. It can carry several medium-range guided air-to-air missiles and boasts a maximum speed of 2500 km/hr (Mach 2.35).

Credit: Wikipedia

Mirage-2000

This fighter aircraft of French origin serves as a single-seater for air defense. It can reach a maximum speed of 2495 km/hr (Mach 2.3), carrying cannons and close combat missiles on external stations.

Credit: Wikipedia

MiG-29

This aircraft from Russia features twin engines and a single seat. It boasts a maximum speed of 2445 km per hour (Mach-2.3) and is equipped with a 30 mm cannon, as well as close combat and medium-range radar-guided missiles.

Credit: Wikipedia

MiG-27

This tactical strike fighter aircraft has a single-engine, single-seater model that can reach a maximum speed of 1700 km/hr (Mach 1.6). It can carry a cannon and up to 4000 kg, including other weapons.

Credit: Wikipedia

Jaguar

This aircraft of Anglo-French origin has a twin-engine and single-seater model that boasts a maximum speed of 1350 km/hr (Mach 1.3). It is equipped with guns and has the capability to carry up to 4750 kg of external stores, such as bombs or fuel.

Credit: Wikipedia

MiG-21 BISON

This multirole fighter jet from Russia serves as the backbone of the IAF, featuring a single engine and single seater. It can reach a maximum speed of 2230 km/hr (Mach 2.1) and is equipped with a 23mm twin-barrel cannon and close combat missiles.

Credit: Wikipedia

Rafale

With its advanced radar and electronic warfare capabilities, the Rafale stands as a 4.5-generation aircraft that has played a crucial role in restoring India's supremacy over the skies of its subcontinent. This aircraft boasts long-range air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, cementing its position as a formidable asset for the Indian Air Force.

Credit: Wikipedia

Tejas

This indigenous aircraft is being introduced as a light combat air asset.

Credit: Wikipedia

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