Indian Air Force Seeks 2–3 Squadrons of Fifth-Generation Fighter Jets for Enhanced Readiness
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is considering the acquisition of two to three squadrons of fifth-generation fighter jets from foreign sources to enhance its combat capabilities until the domestically developed Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is ready for deployment, according to defense sources on Wednesday.
A typical squadron consists of 18 to 20 fighter aircraft, indicating that the IAF is planning to purchase approximately 40 to 60 of these advanced fighters in the interim.
The proposal, which was recently discussed at a high-level government meeting, aims to ensure the IAF maintains its technological superiority. This move comes amidst concerns over China's rapid advancements in airpower and the possibility of it supplying fifth-generation jets to Pakistan. The plan has received backing from a defense ministry committee chaired by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, who highlighted the importance of maintaining deterrence along India's northern and western borders.
Although no final decision has been made, discussions at the official level continue. The United States has offered its F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter, while Russia has proposed the Su-57 Felon. Previously, India had withdrawn from the joint Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project with Russia but still has the option to reengage.
Simultaneously, India is advancing a separate effort to produce 114 next-generation 4.5+ fighters through a partnership with a foreign entity under the 'Make in India' initiative. This could lead to a government-to-government agreement following a competitive tender process.
As China moves toward developing sixth-generation fighters, the IAF's drive for modernization underscores the strategic necessity to address capability gaps before the AMCA is introduced later this decade.
