Eventually, the IAF will shortlist a few (maybe 2-3, maybe more; out of the Six aircraft {MMRCA} that are under consideration) which are likely to meet its operational requirements over the next 'three decades' or so. The deal is obviously not only for the cost of 126 aircraft, but includes a whole host of issues, including life cycle costs, product support etc etc. Once the IAF short lists (lets assume 3) types of aircraft, in its OWN order of preference - as far as the Govt/Nation is concerned, all three meet the requirement of the IAF/the Nation. Now, the decision, of WHICH AIRCRAFT to procure has Geo-strategic Ramifications. After all, as the article states - "This $10 billion-plus tender is considered one of the biggest international military contracts in the world now". This is the time for our Defence Planners and Decision Makers to revisit the following:- 1. Kautilya's - 'Arthashastra' 2. Sun Tzu's - 'The Art of War' 3. Zbigniew Brzezinski's - 'The Grand Chess Board'. These will definitely guide them in taking a well considered and a balanced Geo-strategic Decision. Such Geo-strategic decisions are based on massive/long term/significant Quid Pro Quo s. What I am trying to imply is - 18 Block 50/52 F-16 C/Ds are Insignificant! All the 6 MMRCA's in the fray, are a generation or more ahead of these F-16's in question. However, our (India's) problem lies in the acquisition process of Weapon Systems. Therefore, when the selected MMRCA eventually takes to the skies, in Indian colours and in an operational role (not for trials) is anybody's guess. The Advanced Jet Trainer's (AJT) desired induction (1986), finally took place two decades later. My concern is only one! In my personal opinion, irrespective of the finally selected MMRCA/MMRCA's, the FINAL INDUCTION should be of only ONE TYPE of aircraft. The IAF has been paying the price of operating too many types of aircraft for far too long! Let us learn from History and not commit the same mistake again. Let Geopolitics not split the deal.
