India's defense minister has approved plans to develop the country's most advanced stealth fighter jet, as announced on Tuesday. This decision comes amid rising tensions with Pakistan, which have sparked a renewed arms race in the region following a recent military clash.
The Indian state-run Aeronautical Development Agency, responsible for the program, will soon seek initial interest from defense firms to create a prototype of the envisioned twin-engine, fifth-generation fighter jet, according to the ministry.
This project is vital for the Indian Air Force, which has seen its fleet of primarily Russian and ex-Soviet aircraft decrease to 31, down from an authorized strength of 42. This reduction occurs at a time when China is rapidly expanding its air force. Meanwhile, Pakistan has added one of China's most advanced warplanes, the J-10, to its arsenal.
This month, the militaries of nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan engaged in four days of intense fighting, during which both sides deployed fighter jets, missiles, drones, and artillery. A cease-fire was later announced by U.S. President Donald Trump.
This conflict marked the first significant use of drones by both nations, leading to what Reuters describes as a drone arms race between the two South Asian powers, based on interviews with 15 individuals, including security officials, industry leaders, and analysts from both countries.
India plans to collaborate with a domestic company on its stealth fighter program. According to a statement from the Defense Ministry, companies can submit bids either independently or as part of a joint venture, with opportunities available for both private and state-owned firms.
In March, an Indian defense committee suggested involving the private sector in the production of military aircraft to enhance the Indian Air Force's capabilities and alleviate the pressure on Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., the primary manufacturer of India's military aircraft. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has previously expressed concerns about Hindustan Aeronautics' slow delivery of the light combat Tejas aircraft, a 4.5-generation fighter. The company attributed these delays to supply chain issues affecting engine deliveries from General Electric.
