IAF Expands Indigenous Maintenance Network With 930 Indian Firms

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is working on overhauling its fighter fleet maintenance system in order to minimize vulnerability to disruptions from global supply chain issues and enhance Aatmanirbharta in the field of defence. The strategy is based on indigenous manufacturing along with the utilization of such innovative technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Digital Twins and 3D printing. Currently, 930 Indian companies are involved in meeting maintenance demands for mechanical, electrical, electronics and rubber spare parts.

930 Indian Companies Assist IAF Maintenance Operations

The IAF has created an extensive network of Indian industries comprising 930 Indian companies that specialize in relevant manufacturing fields. The companies participate in the production and maintenance of the required spare parts to ensure operation of aircraft and equipment.

This local initiative has already brought about the tangible achievements. Over 62,300 spare parts have been manufactured domestically, accounting for 97% of frequently used operational spare parts and 93% of obligatory overhaul spare parts.

Predictive Maintenance Through AI and Digital Twins

The IAF is also applying digital technology to predict equipment breakdowns that may interfere with its operations.

Through digital twins and artificial intelligence, the technical team can track the condition of aircraft systems and detect any signs of hardware defects. This is a step away from repairing equipment only when there are problems to predicting maintenance needs.

This could potentially help increase equipment readiness while making the job easier for maintenance staff.

3D Printing for Urgent Spare Parts

There is an in-house 3D Additive Manufacturing center put up in 2022. The 3D printing center helps deal with urgent need for spare and part production.

The center makes airborne non-critical spares and part for ground equipment using various materials like aluminum, steel and titanium alloys. This helps reduce dependence on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers for some parts.

Role of MSMEs and Startups Enhanced

IAF, on the other hand, is increasing the role of innovation in its ecosystem. There are about 180 such projects related to MSMEs and startups that are under observation as a part of the Make, iDEX and Technology Development Fund programs.

These projects have opened business prospects worth more than ₹17,000 crore for the country’s defense manufacturing sector.

IAF has collaborated with institutes like IITs, IISc, DIAT and MILIT in order to develop technology.