SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has recently outlined an ambitious plan to significantly bolster its fighter jet fleet with 4.5+ generation aircraft, prompting debate and scrutiny from defense analysts. Ranesh Rajan, a prominent defense analyst speaking to AFI/IDRW.org, has voiced concerns over the IAF’s strategy, suggesting that it might be a misstep in the rapidly evolving landscape of aerial warfare where 5th and 6th generation jets are becoming the norm.
The IAF has placed orders for 83 Tejas Mk1A and an additional 97 units of this 4.5 generation light combat aircraft, aiming for induction from 2025 onwards. These jets are an upgrade from the original Tejas, offering enhanced avionics, radar, and electronic warfare capabilities.
With plans for 200 units between 2025 and 2035, the MkII version represents a step up with increased range, payload, and improved stealth features, positioning it as a more formidable multirole fighter. The IAF is looking to induct 110 jets under this tender, focusing on 4.5 generation aircraft. This move is seen as a strategy to replace aging fleets and maintain combat readiness in the interim period before indigenous 5th generation jets like the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) become operational.
Ranesh Rajan highlights that while the IAF’s plan to augment its fleet with 4.5+ generation jets seems pragmatic for immediate operational needs, it might not align with global trends where nations are increasingly investing in 5th and even 6th generation technology.
By the time these jets are fully integrated into the IAF, several countries will have already deployed or are in advanced stages of deploying 5th generation jets like the F-35 or J-20, and some are looking towards 6th generation concepts. This could leave India at a strategic disadvantage in terms of technological edge in future conflicts.
The investment in these 4.5+ generation jets, while necessary for maintaining squadron strength, might be seen as less future-proof compared to investing in stealth technology and AI integration which are hallmarks of newer generation aircraft.
Rajan points out the historical pattern where India has sometimes rushed acquisitions in response to regional power dynamics, potentially leading to “panic buying” rather than strategic foresight. This could once again be a scenario if Pakistan or China advances their stealth capabilities significantly before India’s AMCA project matures.