4 reasons why the Rafale fighter jet deal is of prime importance to India

Aging MiG-21:

After serving for over five decades in the IAF and maintaining air supremacy, the aging MiG-21s (Mikoyan Gurevich) are now a cause of major concern. A rising number of fatal accidents has led to the vintage MiGs being nicknamed "flying coffins".

Despite this, the IAF has been using the MiG-21s as interceptors. The government has opted for an upgrade of the MiG-21 aircrafts - famous for their ability to take-off within few seconds of receiving the first alert. But since the technology and airframe of these aircrafts is old, the IAF is now hoping to induct the Rafales, a move which will enable the force to phase out its MiG-21s and enhance its combat abilities. 

Disappointing LCA project:

The light combat aircraft, known as Tejas, is still awaiting an operational induction into IAF. The project, that began in 1980s, was an attempt at replacing the aging MiG-21 aircrafts.

The delay and multiple issues in the LCA project has given the government yet another reason to finalise the Rafale deal at earliest. The first squadron of the LCA was supposed to be operational by December 2015. But the IAF is still waiting to get the fifth aircraft to complete the training squadron.

Moreover, the government is now in talks with Swedish aviation company Saab to upgrade the entire fleet of the LCA, instead of waiting for the second phase of the single-seat, light weighted Tejas Mark-II.

In a recently held exercise, the Iron Fist 2016, the plane missed its target, raising questions on its combat dog-fight quality.

Mirage-2000 jets out for upgradation:

The Mirage served a crucial role during the Kargil conflict. The fighter jet holds the record of being the IAF aircraft with the least number of accidents since its induction. However, the fleet has now been sent off for a technological upgrade and Dassault Aviation will deliver the planes in the next one year.

Pakistan-China ties:

While India is still finalising the Rafale deal, Pakistan in 2015, inked a deal to buy 110 JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from China. As a part of the contact, China will deliver the first 55 planes within two years.

Recently, the US also approved a deal to sell F-16 Fighting Falcons to Pakistan.

While these factors stress on the need to seal the deal soon, it is important to note that the Rafale fighter jets will only be delivered in two years, experts said.