India Approves Fifth-Generation Fighter Jet Program Amid Pakistan’s J-35 Induction
In a significant move to bolster its aerial defence capabilities, India has approved a framework for the development of a fifth-generation twin-engine stealth fighter jet. The decision follows intelligence reports indicating that Pakistan is integrating the latest J-35 stealth aircraft into its rapidly advancing air force.
The ambitious fighter jet program will be spearheaded by India’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), which is expected to soon issue an invitation for expressions of interest from domestic and international defence firms to build the prototype.
This development comes at a critical juncture for the Indian Air Force (IAF), which currently operates 31 squadrons—well below its sanctioned strength of 42. Meanwhile, regional adversaries are expanding their air capabilities at a rapid pace. Pakistan has already added the Chinese J-10 fighter jets to its fleet and recently deployed them during a four-day military standoff with India, pitting them against India’s Rafale jets.
Under the new framework, both private and public sector firms in India will be eligible to bid—either independently or through joint ventures—aligning with a March recommendation by an Indian defence committee to reduce reliance on Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) by involving private players in combat aircraft production.
India’s urgency to modernize its fleet intensified following the reported loss of several Rafale jets in the recent border skirmish with Pakistan. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) claimed a resounding 6-0 aerial victory during the encounter. PAF’s Air Vice Marshal Aurangzeb emphasized the operational superiority achieved during the clash, further intensifying the urgency on India’s part to enhance its air power.
