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SOURCE: IDRW.ORG

A significant report by the French think tank, the French Institute of International Relations (Ifri), titled “The Future of Air Superiority: Mastering the Skies in High Intensity,” has cast a spotlight on the limitations of the French model, particularly the Rafale fighter jet, in contemporary high-intensity warfare scenarios. Authored by two experts from the French Air and Space Forces, the 114-page document was highlighted by the French media outlet L’Opinion.

The report suggests that the “French model is reaching its limits” when it comes to functioning effectively within a coalition in high-intensity conflicts. French pilots flying Rafale jets have encountered significant difficulties when pitted against fifth-generation fighters like the American F-35 in exercises. The report points out that “the combat mission against stealth fighters is impossible to win with the current state of the sensors.”

The IAF, which has already procured 36 Rafale jets and is considering additional purchases, might need to reassess the strategic role of these aircraft in modern combat scenarios. If the Rafale is seen primarily as support for more advanced, fifth-generation fighters in coalition operations, India might question the efficiency of investing heavily in this platform for air superiority tasks.

With Pakistan potentially acquiring the Chinese J-35A, a fifth-generation fighter, the IAF faces the prospect of a “stealth gap.” The Ifri report implicitly underscores the challenge of countering stealth technology with Rafales, which could be less effective against Pakistan’s future air force composition.

The IAF might lean towards accelerating the development or procurement of its own fifth-generation fighters like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) or consider international options that offer stealth capabilities. This would aim to maintain or regain air superiority in the region, especially if adversaries like Pakistan continue to modernize their fleets.

Given the report’s emphasis on sensor limitations, there might be an increased focus on upgrading the Rafale’s avionics and electronic warfare systems to better handle stealth threats. This could involve collaborations with countries like France to enhance the Rafale’s capabilities or seeking alternative technologies.

The IAF’s strategy might evolve to ensure it can operate effectively within international coalitions, where roles might be more rigidly defined by aircraft capabilities. This could mean preparing for a multi-tiered approach where Rafales might not lead but contribute significantly to mission success in other capacities.

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