India is at a pivotal moment in modernizing its air force, with critical decisions to be made regarding its future fighter jet fleet. As China’s military strength continues to grow and the Indian Air Force (IAF) struggles with a declining number of fighter squadrons, India must choose between purchasing cutting-edge foreign stealth fighters or accelerating its indigenous fighter jet program.
The F-35: A High-Tech but Costly Option
During his Washington visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with US President Donald Trump, who announced that India was being considered for the purchase of F-35s, a fifth-generation stealth fighter primarily sold to NATO allies – Japan and Israel. The F-35 is among the most advanced jets globally, equipped with state-of-the-art sensors, artificial intelligence-driven combat systems, and seamless data-sharing capabilities.
However, at approximately $80 million per aircraft, the F-35 is also one of the most expensive fighter jets in the world. Moreover, integrating it into the IAF’s existing infrastructure would be a challenge, especially without co-production rights. Such a purchase would deepen India’s defense ties with the U.S., but it may not align with India’s long-term goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Russia’s Su-57: A Distant Contender?
Another option for India is strengthening its defense partnership with Russia by procuring the Su-57 stealth fighter. However, many experts doubt its viability. India had previously been part of a joint development program with Russia for the Su-57 but withdrew in 2018 due to disputes over cost-sharing, technology transfer, and the aircraft’s capabilities.
While Russia continues to market the Su-57, India’s concerns about its performance and the reliability of the partnership make it a less attractive choice compared to other alternatives.
The Indigenous AMCA: India’s Best Bet?
India’s long-term air force modernization plans primarily focus on the development of its homegrown Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The AMCA, being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), is a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed to fulfill India’s future combat needs while reducing dependence on foreign technology. The project has received a budget of nearly ₹15,000 crore, signifying the government’s commitment to its success.
However, the AMCA remains at least a decade away from deployment. Delays in indigenous fighter jet development have been a recurring issue, forcing India to make stopgap purchases from foreign manufacturers. The IAF Chief, Air Marshal AP Singh, has openly expressed concerns about these delays, acknowledging that the force cannot afford to wait indefinitely for a homegrown solution.
Immediate Needs vs. Long-Term Goals
With the IAF operating only 31 fighter squadrons—well below the sanctioned 42—it urgently needs new aircraft. The Sukhoi-30, India’s current workhorse, will require a long-term replacement. The IAF plans to acquire over 500 new jets, including the Tejas Mark 1A and Mark 2, which are indigenous light combat aircraft. India is also considering purchasing 114 multirole fighter jets under the $20 billion Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, but foreign participation in this initiative remains uncertain due to delays and procurement challenges.
Key Challenges in Modernization
India’s air force modernization faces three major hurdles, funding constraints, procurement delays, and dependence on foreign technology. Defense spending has shrunk in real terms, making large-scale foreign acquisitions difficult to sustain. Meanwhile, as India prioritizes indigenous development, delays in DRDO projects create cycles of temporary reliance on foreign purchases.
Experts says that India’s future in airpower isn’t just about buying the best jet—it’s about building a sustainable and advanced domestic aerospace industry. While acquiring a small number of advanced foreign fighters like the F-35 or additional Rafales might address short-term capability gaps, the long-term solution lies in successfully developing and delivering the AMCA on time. For India, the true challenge lies in breaking the cycle of delays and dependency.
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Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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