The Indian Air Force (IAF) might consider purchasing fifth-generation fighter jets from foreign manufacturers as a temporary solution if Pakistan acquires similar aircraft, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh confirmed.
This potential move would aim to maintain the regional balance of power until India's own fifth-generation fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), becomes operational.
Speaking at the India Today Conclave 2025, Air Chief Marshal addressed concerns about Pakistan potentially acquiring advanced fighter jets. He acknowledged the changing strategic landscape in South Asia, especially with the increasing availability of fifth-generation stealth technology.
Historically, the IAF has possessed a technological advantage over the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). Aircraft like the Su-30MKI, Rafale, and the indigenously developed Tejas have given India a significant edge over Pakistan's fleet, which primarily consists of F-16s, JF-17s, and Mirage III/V aircraft.
However, the spread of fifth-generation fighters like the American F-35 Lightning II, the Chinese J-20, and the Russian Su-57 presents a potential shift in this balance.
There are concerns about Pakistan's attempts for procuring the 5th Gen Fighter Jets. Reports suggest that Pakistan has expressed interest in China's J-20 and FC-31 (also referred to as J-31) stealth fighters.
While no official agreements have been confirmed, the possibility of Pakistan obtaining these advanced aircraft, possibly through its military partnership with China, is a serious consideration for the IAF.
India's long-term strategy for air dominance relies on the AMCA, a fifth-generation stealth fighter currently under development by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The AMCA is designed to incorporate stealth features, the ability to cruise at supersonic speeds without afterburners (supercruise), advanced sensor systems, and the capability to operate in a networked environment. The first AMCA prototype is expected around 2028, with the aircraft expected to enter service in the mid-2030s.
Air Chief Marshal reiterated the critical importance of the indigenous AMCA program. He emphasized that the project would not be abandoned in favor of foreign purchases.
However, in given statement he also said that the inherent complexities and potential delays in such an ambitious project could create a temporary vulnerability if Pakistan were to rapidly acquire fifth-generation capabilities.
The Air Chief Marshal proposed a potential solution. It involves a two-pronged approach: proceeding with the AMCA's development while also considering a limited purchase of foreign fifth-generation fighters. This interim acquisition would ensure the IAF retains its operational edge until the AMCA is ready.
He suggested a possible model where India could "buy something from outside with some indigenous content, which progressively increases, and collaborate with them to develop the AMCA." This signifies a potential blend of immediate procurement and continued indigenous development.
