A recent report from the French Institute of International Relations (Ifri), a leading French think tank, has raised concerns about the capabilities of the Dassault Rafale fighter jet in modern aerial combat, particularly against advanced stealth aircraft.
The report, titled "The Future of Air Superiority: Mastering the Skies in High Intensity," was authored by two experts from the French Air and Space Forces and has been highlighted by the French media outlet L’Opinion.
The Ifri report suggests that the current French approach to air superiority may be inadequate in high-intensity conflicts, especially when operating alongside allies with fifth-generation fighter jets like the American F-35.
In simulated combat exercises, Rafale pilots have reportedly faced significant challenges when engaging stealth fighters, leading the report to conclude that "the combat mission against stealth fighters is impossible to win with the current state of the sensors."
This assessment has significant implications for the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has already inducted 36 Rafale jets and is considering further acquisitions.
The report raises questions about the Rafale's effectiveness in air superiority roles against adversaries equipped with fifth-generation fighters, such as the Chinese J-20 and the potential acquisition of the Chinese J-35A by Pakistan.
This looming "stealth gap" could undermine India's ability to maintain air dominance in the region.
In response to these concerns, India may accelerate the development of its own fifth-generation fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), or explore alternative options for acquiring stealth capabilities.
The AMCA program, spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), aims to deliver a cutting-edge fighter jet with advanced stealth features, sensor fusion, and network-centric warfare capabilities.
Furthermore, the IAF may prioritize upgrading the Rafale's existing avionics and electronic warfare systems to enhance its survivability and effectiveness against stealth threats. This could involve collaborating with France to develop and integrate new technologies or seeking solutions from other international partners.
The Ifri report underscores the evolving nature of aerial warfare and the challenges posed by advanced stealth technology. India's response will likely involve a multi-pronged approach, including accelerating indigenous fighter development, pursuing upgrades for existing platforms, and potentially diversifying its fighter fleet to ensure a robust and adaptable air defence capability.
