The Indian Air Force (IAF) is likely to propose the purchase of fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft to the government, according to a senior government official.
This move is primarily in response to a changing security landscape in the region, where neighboring countries are quickly improving their air forces.
Acquiring such advanced aircraft is considered crucial for India to maintain its air dominance and address emerging threats, especially from China and its increasing military cooperation with Pakistan.
A key factor driving the IAF's recommendation is China's rapid development of stealth aircraft technology. China has already deployed its fifth-generation J-20 fighter and is reportedly working on sixth-generation aircraft with even more advanced capabilities in stealth, sensor integration, and autonomous operation.
Of particular concern to India is the reported impending sale of 40 fifth-generation J-35 fighter jets – a stealth aircraft export version – from China to Pakistan. This sale could significantly alter the regional balance of air power, prompting India to enhance its own capabilities.
The possibility of India acquiring stealth aircraft became more prominent after recent comments by the US President Donald Trump during a press briefing with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The US President indicated that United States was open to eventually selling its F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters to India, suggesting a potential strengthening of defense cooperation between the two nations.
The Lockheed Martin-produced F-35 is considered one of the most technologically advanced fighter jets globally, known for its stealth features, ability to perform various roles, and advanced sensor systems.
However, the government source clarified that any decision on a potential US offer would depend on several factors. The high cost of the F-35 is a major consideration. This includes not only the aircraft's purchase price but also the significant expenses associated with building the necessary infrastructure, training personnel, and establishing a long-term maintenance program.
India would need to create a comprehensive support system, including secure supply chains, specialized facilities, and a skilled workforce, to effectively integrate the F-35 into its air force. These logistical and financial implications will be thoroughly assessed before any commitment is made.
The IAF's focus on stealth aircraft is part of a larger modernization plan to address capability shortfalls and prepare for future warfare. Currently, the IAF relies heavily on fourth-generation aircraft like the Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, and the domestically produced Tejas. Adding fifth-generation fighters would represent a significant technological advancement.
The IAF has also shown strong interest in the domestically developed Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation stealth fighter being developed by India's DRDO. However, since the AMCA is still several years from being ready for operational service, acquiring an existing platform like the F-35 could provide an interim solution.
China's rapid military expansion and its strengthening defense relationship with Pakistan have made this decision more urgent. The potential sale of J-35s to Pakistan would provide India's western neighbor with a stealth-capable air force, potentially offsetting IAF's current advantages in numbers and technology.
Meanwhile, China's development of sixth-generation aircraft demonstrates the long-term need for India to keep pace with a technologically advanced rival along its northern border.
While the F-35 is an appealing option, India must carefully evaluate it in light of its strategic and economic goals. The source mentioned that any agreement with the US would likely involve complex negotiations. Key considerations for India would include technology transfer and guarantees of operational independence, reflecting India's commitment to self-reliance in defense.
The fact that the F-35 depends on US-controlled maintenance and software updates could also be a concern, given India's desire to maintain independent control over its military equipment.
