IAF MiG-21s cannot be replaced with advanced Dassault Rafales!! And it will be replaced by Light fighters like LCA Tejas and possibly SAAB Gripen NG!!

LCA TEJAS MK I

Mig-21

Swedish SAAB JAS Gripen

The logical thing according to our defence minister is that Rafale fighter cannot replace MiG-21 on a 1 to 1 basis. Also at present form LCA tejas is not there to fully replace the supersonic and versatile MiG-21 . so the following startegy will be adapted.

1. LCA MK I will be inducted in limited numbers both in IoC-2 and FoC configuration- because it has less than half of the combat radius compare to MiG-21  although it brings lot of capablities to the table!
2. Work will be accelarated on LCA tejas MK II with an uprated GE engine (F-414) and the first prototype may be ready by 2020 or sooner and then the serial production will start!!
3. Given the production capabilities of HAL, it cannot take for granted to produce the 600+ numbers(may be a bit less) of LCAs required by IAF, so a different single engine fighter will be considered which will have ToT to India along with the complete assembly line.
4. This will accelerate the induction of light fighter in to IAF.
5. The additional light fighter being considered here is latest version of Gripen-NG which sweden is very keen to manufacture in india!!
6. Some of the matured technologies in this light fighter will be carry forwaded to LCA-MK II developement!!
7. This is the reason only 36 Rafale fighters are inducted for strategic purpose!!
8. This will dramatically increase the number of light fighters with IAF and will be a perfect replacement to MiG-21s!!