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As India confronts a dynamic and technologically advancing regional security landscape, strategic planners are looking beyond current modernisation projects towards the development of a sixth-generation fighter aircraft.
This new programme is being envisioned as a long-term replacement for the Indian Air Force's (IAF) formidable Sukhoi Su-30MKI fleet, which is expected to face operational challenges against future threats by the late 2030s.
The Su-30MKI, with a fleet size of over 270 aircraft, is currently the backbone of the IAF's combat power. It is a versatile 4.5-generation multi-role fighter, renowned for its range, payload capacity, and manoeuvrability.
However, as stealth technology and advanced air defence systems become more prevalent in the region, the operational relevance of non-stealth platforms like the Su-30MKI will diminish.
To keep the fleet combat-ready, the IAF is undertaking significant "Super Sukhoi" upgrades, equipping the jets with advanced indigenous radars and weapon systems to extend their service life into the 2040s.
The strategic imperative for a new-generation fighter is driven by rapid advancements in neighbouring air forces. China's People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has already operationalised its J-20 stealth fighter and is reportedly flight-testing next-generation prototypes, speculatively named J-36 and J-50. These platforms are designed for high-speed, long-range, and low-observable operations.
Compounding this, Pakistan is set to acquire Chinese J-35A stealth fighters, a move that will significantly enhance its air combat capabilities and challenge India's air superiority.
While India's own fifth-generation platform, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is moving forward, it is not seen as a direct replacement for the heavy Su-30MKI.
The AMCA is a 25-tonne medium-weight stealth fighter designed for deep penetration and strike missions. In contrast, the proposed sixth-generation successor to the Sukhoi would be a heavier 30 to 35-tonne aircraft.
This would complement the AMCA by providing greater range, a larger payload for air superiority and long-range strike missions, and a more advanced sensor suite.
The vision for this future aircraft incorporates defining sixth-generation technologies.
These include the ability to command and control unmanned "loyal wingman" drones, such as the in-development CATS Warrior, effectively acting as a force multiplier.
Other key technologies include advanced artificial intelligence for decision support, adaptive stealth features, and the potential integration of Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs). The goal is an ambitious one: to begin flight trials by 2040 and commence induction by the middle of that decade.
However, embarking on such a project presents monumental challenges for India's defence establishment. The most significant hurdle is the development of a suitable engine.
A sixth-generation fighter of this scale would require a powerful variable-cycle engine capable of generating 150-180 kilonewtons (kN) of thrust.
India's past struggles with the indigenous Kaveri engine programme underscore the technological complexities and the likely need for extensive international collaboration.
Furthermore, the financial investment would be immense, with estimates suggesting a total programme cost of $20-30 billion over two decades.
The successful integration of futuristic technologies like AI and DEWs also requires a robust research and development ecosystem, necessitating strong partnerships between government agencies and private sector firms.
Given the tight timeline, a concerted national effort would be essential to deliver a platform capable of ensuring India's air dominance and national security in the complex battlefields of the future.
