India will spend $100bn to replace the air force’s ageing fleet of combat and transport aircraft and helicopters over the next 12 years, according to India Strategic defence magazine study.

The $100bn funding for the air force will be part of the total $200bn that India will spend as part of its defence acquisitions by 2022, economictimes.indiatimes.com has reported.

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The IAF has plans to acquire surveillance aircraft, with lesser capability, as well as Phalcon airborne warning and control system (AWAC).

The air force is also giving high priority to acquire pilotless intelligence aircraft (drones) generally called UAVs, including those armed.

India has plans to increase its combat squadrons from its current strength of 39.5 squadrons to 45 with nearly 900 aircraft.

The air force will also use the fund to develop satellites and net centricity.

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