SOURCE: AFI
China recently unveiled and flew its next-generation stealth fighter jet, sparking a significant debate in the Indian defense community. Some voices advocate for cancelling the Tejas MkII program in favor of acquiring a 5th-generation fighter jet from abroad while focusing on the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), slated for induction by 2035. However, the Tejas MkII remains a critical asset for the Indian Air Force (IAF), designed specifically to meet operational challenges posed by the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and its integrated air defense systems (IADS).
The Tejas MkII is not just a continuation of its predecessor but a significant leap forward in terms of capabilities. Its design incorporates advanced avionics, an upgraded engine, and increased payload capacity, making it suitable for countering the PLAAF’s formidable IADS. Unlike imported aircraft, the MkII can be customized and upgraded in response to evolving threats, ensuring it remains relevant over its lifecycle.
High uptime and maintainability are central to the MkII’s design. This ensures the aircraft is available for sustained operations, which is crucial for a force multiplier in contested airspace. Many imported jets, despite their advanced features, often struggle with operational availability due to complex maintenance requirements and logistical dependencies.
Indigenous platforms like the Tejas MkII offer the advantage of seamless integration of new technologies and weaponry. The flexibility to add upgraded sensors, advanced munitions, and electronic warfare systems ensures the aircraft can adapt to future combat scenarios. In contrast, imported platforms may face restrictions in customization due to intellectual property and licensing constraints.
Relying heavily on foreign fighters for 5th-generation capabilities could expose India to geopolitical risks and supply chain disruptions. Imported aircraft often come with operational caveats and limitations imposed by the supplier nations. Acquiring and maintaining advanced foreign jets is significantly more expensive than indigenous options. The Tejas MkII provides a cost-effective solution without compromising operational effectiveness, allowing the IAF to allocate resources to other critical areas.
Cancelling the MkII could hamper India’s domestic aerospace ecosystem. Developing indigenous platforms strengthens local industries, enhances technical expertise, and fosters innovation, all of which are crucial for long-term self-reliance.
While the AMCA is India’s ambitious next-generation stealth fighter project, its projected induction by 2035 leaves a considerable capability gap. The Tejas MkII serves as an essential bridge, ensuring the IAF maintains a robust medium-weight fighter fleet during this interim period. By the time AMCA is operational, the MkII will have provided years of critical service, bolstering India’s air defense and offensive capabilities.