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SOURCE: IDRW.ORG

In a recent statement to idrw.org, Defence Analyst Ranesh Rajan has urged the Indian Air Force (IAF) to pioneer its own definition of what constitutes a sixth-generation fighter jet. Rajan argues that by setting its own standards, the IAF can tailor its Air Staff Requirements (ASR) to meet specific operational needs rather than adopting definitions set by global powers like the USA and China.

Rajan’s perspective comes at a time when the global aerospace community is actively debating the characteristics that would distinguish a sixth-generation fighter from its predecessors. Traditionally, the evolution of fighter jets has been largely influenced by Western and, increasingly, Chinese definitions, which focus on aspects like enhanced stealth, artificial intelligence (AI), unmanned teaming capabilities, and hypersonic weaponry.

“Rather than letting the USA and China set what can be classified as a 6th gen fighter jet, the IAF should come up with its own definition,” Rajan emphasized. He pointed out that India’s strategic environment, with its unique geographical and geopolitical challenges, necessitates a fighter jet that might not align perfectly with the capabilities prioritized by other nations.

The IAF’s operational environment requires aircraft optimized for high-altitude combat, long-range capabilities, and resilience against diverse weather conditions prevalent across India’s varied terrain. By defining its own parameters, India could lead in specific technological areas, fostering innovation within its defense sector. This could include unique integration of indigenous technologies like directed energy weapons or advanced sensor suites specialized for the subcontinental theater.

Crafting its own sixth-generation fighter definition allows India to avoid the race towards potentially unnecessary technologies that inflate costs, focusing instead on what is genuinely required for national security.

In an era where technology transfer and intellectual property rights are contentious issues, defining its specifications could help India maintain greater control over its military hardware, reducing dependency on foreign technology.

A self-defined standard would allow the IAF to be more adaptable, responding to emerging threats or technological advancements at a pace and in a direction that suits its strategic interests rather than following a global trend.

Rajan’s call is for the IAF to think beyond the conventional paradigms of fighter jet evolution, suggesting that while global standards can be a reference, the primary focus should be on what will make India’s air force superior in its specific operational context. This includes not just hardware but also integration with existing and future systems, like the integration with space assets and cyber warfare capabilities.

He also cautioned against the pitfalls of ‘panic buying’ or rushing into acquisitions driven by competitors’ advancements, a practice he notes has historically led to less than optimal procurement decisions for India’s military. Instead, he advocates for a methodical, self-driven approach to military aviation development.

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