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The global military aviation landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation, with China's aggressive advancements in fighter jet technology raising serious concerns for India.
The mass production of China's 5th generation J-20 fighter jets and the successful first flight of what is believed to be a 6th generation aircraft have prompted urgent calls to reassess India's air force procurement strategy, particularly the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program aimed at acquiring 4.5 generation jets.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been pursuing the MRFA program to modernize its fleet, seeking to procure 114 advanced multi-role fighter jets. Contenders include the Eurofighter Typhoon, the French Rafale, and the American F/A-18 Super Hornet, all classified as 4.5 generation fighters. However, this approach appears increasingly outdated in light of China's recent strides.
China's J-20 stealth fighter has not only entered mass production but is also being deployed in significant numbers, with projections of over 1000 units by 2035. More alarmingly, the recent first flight of a purported 6th generation Chinese fighter jet signals Beijing's intent to leapfrog current technologies, aiming for capabilities like unmanned teaming, enhanced stealth, and potentially hypersonic speed.
These developments have led defence analysts to question whether India's focus on 4.5 generation fighters adequately addresses the strategic threats posed by China's advancements. By the time these new jets are integrated into the IAF, they may already be technologically outmatched by Chinese aircraft.
The immediate recommendation is for India to prioritize acquiring or accelerating the development of 5th generation fighters. While the indigenous AMCA project holds promise, it faces delays, with production not expected until the mid-2030s. In the interim, India may need to explore options for purchasing 5th generation fighters from abroad or expedite the AMCA's development timeline.
Critics argue that investing in 4.5 generation technology now is tantamount to acquiring obsolescence. The cost, time, and effort involved in procuring these jets could be better directed towards securing or developing technology that matches or exceeds the capabilities of potential adversaries.
There are also calls for increased international collaboration, not just for procurement but for co-development of next-generation fighter technology. This could involve partnerships with countries like the US, France, or even joining projects like the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) with the UK, Italy, and Japan to share the burdens and benefits of developing cutting-edge fighter aircraft.