At the National Security Summit on November 27, 2025, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, highlighted the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) challenge of operating with a reduced squadron strength of about 30, significantly below the authorized strength of 42. Despite this shortfall, the IAF has increased its operational tempo, raising daily sorties to six to maintain readiness amid evolving security challenges on multiple fronts. This increase is seen as necessary to sustain pressure on the air fleet, given the phased retirement of legacy aircraft like the MiG-21 and delays in new inductions including the Tejas and AMCA programs. The IAF’s intensified sortie rate also supports ongoing strategic exercises such as ‘Exercise Gajraj’ across the northeast and integration efforts under operations like Sindoor, aiming to enhance joint operational synergy with the Army and Navy under future theatre commands. These developments underscore India’s focus on maintaining robust aerial deterrence despite current force limitations and complex regional geopolitical dynamics.