India Evaluates Acquisition of Fifth-Generation Fighter Jets to Address Air Force Shortfall
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has announced that India is considering acquiring fifth-generation fighter jets from key allies to address the Indian Air Force's (IAF) current capability gap. This decision is prompted by increasing regional security challenges and the urgent need to bolster the IAF’s squadron strength, which has decreased to 31 from the sanctioned 42.
In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Singh explained that while India continues to develop its indigenous fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), acquiring foreign jets is a necessary short-term solution. The AMCA program, approved by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in May 2025, aims to deliver a twin-engine stealth fighter for multi-role combat, with expected service entry by 2035.
Although Singh did not specify the aircraft or allies under consideration, defense analysts highlight two main contenders: the U.S.-manufactured Lockheed Martin F-35 and Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57. The F-35, presented to India by U.S. President Donald Trump in February 2025, is renowned for its stealth and networked warfare capabilities. Concurrently, Russia has suggested co-manufacturing the Su-57, with technology transfer, building on India’s experience with the Su-30MKI production in Nashik.
The IAF's pursuit of fifth-generation fighters is largely motivated by strategic concerns, particularly in light of China's deployment of J-20 and J-35 stealth aircraft, and reports of Pakistan potentially acquiring 40 J-35 fighters from China by the end of 2025. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, at the India Today Conclave earlier this year, hinted at acquiring aircraft off-the-shelf if regional balances shifted significantly, while affirming the importance of the AMCA initiative.
The IAF currently operates Su-30MKIs, Rafales, Mirage 2000s, and Tejas Mk1A jets, which lack the stealth and advanced avionics of fifth-generation platforms. Recent conflicts with Pakistan have underscored the necessity for jets capable of penetrating deep into contested airspaces. The acquisition of 36 to 40 fifth-generation jets by 2028, either through direct purchase or leasing, is considered a strategic interim measure.
Cost and integration issues may complicate the potential acquisition of the F-35, priced between $80 and $110 million per unit, along with strict end-user agreements that may conflict with India’s predominantly Russian-origin systems. Conversely, while the Su-57 offers tech transfer and is more affordable, it has been criticized for reliability and limited stealth, which previously led India to exit the FGFA project with Russia.
The ultimate decision on acquiring fifth-generation jets will consider various factors, including capability, cost, and geopolitical dynamics, as India balances its long-term defense objectives with short-term operational needs.
