Keeping aside the "winning" part, what we can actually focus on is "not losing." The PLAAF’s tankers and forward airfields are what enable them to extend the combat ranges of their fighters. These should be our primary targets. It's high time we cancel the NGMBT and FRCV circus. Without maintaining air deterrence, these platforms are just sitting ducks and would end up being nothing more than target practice. Forget the Pinaka obsession and start mass-producing Shaurya missiles at a rate of 1,000 per month. With serialized automated production, we could potentially bring the cost down to around $0.5 million each, totaling $500 million or $6 billion per year. Similarly, accelerate the production of Nirbhay missiles in similar numbers. With Shaurya covering up to 1,500 km and Nirbhay up to 1,000 km, we would establish credible deterrence.
In addition, we need to build and deploy TEL trucks, distributing them across the northern regions in a way that mimics a distributed arsenal in rural or suburban areas. This would ensure survivability and readiness in case of conflict.
) it'll still be countering those archaic threats that were there when it's production started.
