SOURCE: AFI
India’s plans to procure 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) under the 4.5-generation category are increasingly being scrutinized in light of rapidly evolving regional threats. With China already fielding approximately 200-250 fifth-generation J-20A fighters and reportedly having another 200 in the pipeline, as well as unveiling its sixth-generation strike aircraft prototype, the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces a stark reality. Continuing to invest in 4++ generation fighters could leave India at a severe technological disadvantage.
The MRFA tender initially envisioned acquiring advanced 4.5-generation fighters to bolster the IAF’s depleting squadron strength. However, these aircraft may not provide the edge required in a battlefield increasingly dominated by fifth-generation platforms and beyond.
The absence of low observability makes 4.5-generation aircraft vulnerable against fifth-generation stealth platforms like the J-20A. Fifth-generation fighters excel in sensor fusion and network-centric warfare, areas where 4.5-generation aircraft lag. Against integrated air defense systems and modern adversary fighter fleets, 4.5-generation aircraft face higher attrition risks.
With 200-250 J-20A fighters already operational, China has firmly established its dominance in fifth-generation fighter capabilities. The first flight of its sixth-generation strike aircraft underscores China’s ambition to stay ahead in the race for aerial supremacy. China’s focus on exporting platforms like the FC-31 (a lighter fifth-generation aircraft) could see fifth-generation fighters proliferate in the region, potentially even in Pakistan.
The IAF must reassess its approach to the MRFA tender and advocate for nothing short of a fifth-generation platform. A mix of indigenous AMCA fighters and off-the-shelf fifth-generation aircraft like the F-35 could strengthen the IAF’s fleet while supporting indigenous capabilities.
The IAF’s top hierarchy must demand fifth-generation platforms for the MRFA tender to ensure India’s aerial superiority. Approving another generation of 4.5-generation fighters would not only waste resources but also undermine India’s ability to counter evolving threats.