NEW DELHI: Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, India has taken a significant step to enhance its aerial capabilities. The Indian government has decided to develop a state-of-the-art fifth-generation Stealth fighter jet domestically.
This project will be executed under the Indian Aeronautical Development Agency in collaboration with government organizations, with involvement from private Indian companies as well.
According to the Aeronautical Development Agency, this aircraft will be a single-seat, twin-engine, advanced medium combat aircraft. The aim of this project is to bolster the country’s defense capabilities and ensure the deployment of cutting-edge military technology. Defense experts suggest that this move will make India’s Air Force more formidable on the global stage and improve its ability to conduct stealth attacks, avoiding enemy radars.
Fifth-generation stealth fighters are considered highly significant because they remain undetectable to enemy radars and sensors, and have greater weapons-carrying capacity. These aircraft feature designs and coatings that reduce heat and noise signatures, making them difficult to identify. Additionally, they are capable of close-range strikes with weapons internally mounted, keeping their position concealed from adversaries.
In the context of terrorism and regional tensions, air power has played a crucial role in recent India-Pakistan hostilities. Maintaining air superiority in this region makes the development of fifth-generation stealth fighters even more essential. Currently, India operates aircraft such as Tejas, Rafale, MiG-29, and Sukhoi-30, which are considered 4.5 or 4th generation fighters. India does not yet possess any fifth-generation aircraft.
In the past, China has developed a fifth-generation fighter, the J-35A, and there are circulating reports that Pakistan might be considering acquiring this aircraft from China. If Pakistan obtains such a fighter, it would pose a serious concern for India, as it would shift the regional aerial balance in Pakistan’s favor.
Indian officials estimate that, developing this fighter could take approximately 8 to 10 years. During this period, India might need to purchase such advanced aircraft from abroad, including options like the American F-35 and F-22, Russia’s Su-57, and other fifth-generation aircraft. It is a significant and challenging phase for India to balance developing indigenous advanced fighters and acquiring foreign technology.
Overall, India’s move could be a pivotal moment in regional security and military balance, especially when facing powerful neighbours like China and Pakistan.
