The Indian Air Force (IAF) has dismissed the Russian Il-76MD-90A as a replacement for its ageing Il-76 fleet, which is set to be phased out by 2035, citing concerns over its availability and operational readiness. Instead, the IAF is exploring alternatives like the Airbus A400M Atlas, which better aligns with its requirements for high-altitude operations and offers superior lifecycle support. This decision reflects a broader shift towards diversified defense procurement strategies following lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The move emphasizes the IAF’s commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities while fostering domestic aerospace manufacturing through partnerships, particularly with Tata Advanced Systems.