Indian Air Force Pushes for Stealth Aircraft Acquisition Amid Rising Regional Threats

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to recommend the acquisition of stealth aircraft to the Indian government as part of its ongoing modernisation efforts. The move is primarily driven by India's security concerns, particularly regarding the growing military threat from neighbouring China. 

This recommendation follows a significant shortfall in the IAF's operational capabilities, which currently operates only 31 active squadrons instead of the authorized 42, according to reports by Business Standard.

Key Considerations for Stealth Aircraft Acquisition

Strategic Threat Assessment

The IAF’s emphasis on acquiring stealth aircraft is based on a comprehensive threat assessment, especially in the context of China’s rapidly advancing military capabilities. Notably, China's deployment of the Chengdu J-20 stealth fighter is a significant factor behind India's push for advanced stealth technology. The IAF aims to bridge this technological gap and enhance national security by acquiring stealth capabilities that can evade traditional radar systems and provide tactical advantages in conflicts.

Also read | Russia Proposes Advanced AL-41 Engine Upgrade for India's Sukhoi-30MKI Fleet

Aircraft Options Under Evaluation

1. U.S. F-35

The United States has offered to sell Lockheed Martin’s F-35 stealth fighter to India. While the F-35 offers cutting-edge stealth technology, its high price tag (approximately $80 million per unit) and substantial operating costs have raised concerns within the Indian defense establishment.

2. Russian Su-57

In contrast, Russia has proposed the local production of the Su-57 stealth fighter under India’s "Make in India" initiative. This option comes with the added advantage of full technology transfer, aligning with India’s broader goals of enhancing domestic defense production and self-reliance.

3. Indigenous Development: AMCA  

Alongside foreign procurement, India is developing its own fifth-generation fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is expected to become operational by 2034. The AMCA will feature advanced stealth technology and plays a central role in India’s long-term strategy for defense autonomy.

Also read | Dassault Rafale and Sukhoi Su-30 MKI vs Chengdu J-20: A comparison

This dual strategy, combining foreign acquisitions with indigenous development, ensures that India can strengthen its military capabilities both in the short and long term, particularly in response to China’s increasing military prowess.

Comparison of F-35 vs Su-57

The F-35 and Su-57, though both stealth fighters, serve different roles and come with distinct features that make each attractive in their own right.

F-35

• Primary Role: Multi-role stealth fighter designed for precision strikes and airspace penetration.
• Unit Cost: $80 million - $110 million
• Operating Cost: $44,000 per flight hour
• Top Speed: Mach 1.6
• Combat Range: Approximately 1,500 km
• Stealth RCS: ~0.0015 square meters

Su-57

• Primary Role: Air superiority fighter, excelling in agility and dogfighting.
• Unit Cost: $30 million - $40 million
• Operating Cost: $24,000 per flight hour
• Top Speed: Mach 2
• Combat Range: Approximately 1,900 km
• Stealth RCS: ~0.1 - 0.5 square meters.

While the F-35 offers superior stealth and multi-role versatility, the Su-57 has advantages in speed, range, and lower operational costs. The decision will ultimately depend on factors such as cost, technology transfer, and strategic alliances, especially considering India’s historical reliance on Russian military hardware and its growing relationship with the U.S.

Conclusion

The IAF’s push for stealth aircraft acquisition is part of a broader strategy to modernise India’s defense capabilities in the face of evolving security challenges, particularly from China. Whether India moves forward with the F-35, the Su-57, or its own indigenous AMCA will depend on a range of factors, including cost, technological capabilities, and geopolitical considerations.

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