India has approved a strategic framework to build its most advanced stealth fighter jet, the defence ministry announced, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to modernise its air power amid rising military tensions with Pakistan.
The new programme, which envisions a twin-engine fifth-generation warplane, will be led by the state-run Aeronautical Development Agency. The agency is expected to soon invite expressions of interest from defence companies to develop a prototype.
“This project is critical to the future of the Indian Air Force,” the ministry said in a statement, noting that India’s fighter squadrons have dropped to 31—well below the sanctioned strength of 42—at a time when China is rapidly expanding its air force. Pakistan, meanwhile, has already inducted the J-10, one of China’s most advanced multirole fighter jets.
Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours flared earlier this month, culminating in a four-day conflict that saw the use of fighter jets, drones, missiles and artillery before a ceasefire was brokered by US President Donald Trump.
“It was the first time both sides deployed drones at scale,” said one Indian defence official, reflecting growing concerns over a new drone arms race in South Asia. “This is a transformative moment in our regional military dynamics,” added a Pakistani security analyst, who asked not to be named.
At least 15 experts, including security officials and defence industry executives in both countries, confirmed that drone warfare is now at the forefront of strategic planning.
India’s defence ministry confirmed that the stealth fighter programme will involve a domestic partner. Bidding will be open to both private and state-owned firms, either individually or through joint ventures.
In March, a high-level Indian defence committee had recommended greater private sector participation in military aircraft manufacturing, a move aimed at boosting the Indian Air Force’s capabilities and reducing reliance on Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), which currently produces most of India’s combat aircraft.
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has previously criticised HAL for delayed delivery of the Tejas light combat aircraft, a 4.5-generation fighter. HAL, in turn, attributed the delays to supply chain issues affecting engine deliveries from General Electric, a US-based manufacturer.
Boluwatife Enome
Follow us on:
