SOURCE: AFI
As technology in the aerospace domain advances, India faces the inevitable need to replace its fleet of Su-30MKI fighter jets, despite upcoming upgrades. The Super-Sukhoi, a planned upgrade that brings the Su-30MKI closer to the capabilities of the Su-35S, will still have limitations in terms of radar cross-section (RCS) and infrared signature (IRS). These factors, coupled with the rapid evolution of radars, surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), and air-to-air missiles (AAMs), emphasize the need for next-generation aircraft that can maintain air superiority against modern threats.
Fifth- and sixth-generation fighter jets are designed to operate as “spies and snipers,” equipped with the latest technology to outperform adversaries. While previous-generation jets can supplement these advanced aircraft, frontline fighters must incorporate cutting-edge stealth, sensors, and weaponry. The Su-30MKI, even with its Super-Sukhoi upgrade, will eventually fall behind in these areas as adversaries field more advanced systems aimed at countering fifth-generation aircraft.
When an aircraft’s engine or airframe becomes inadequate to meet modern combat requirements, a generational leap in design and technology is necessary. This transition requires extensive research and development, often spanning decades. Europe’s decision to bypass the fifth generation and move directly to sixth-generation programs, such as the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) and Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), reflects the need to catch up with the U.S. in this domain.
India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project is a crucial step towards developing a fifth-generation fighter. However, like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program, the AMCA is progressing slowly. One of the main hurdles is the lack of suitable engines, either domestically developed or sourced through joint ventures or imports. Without reliable engines to experiment with during the prototype phase, the program risks delays and setbacks.
India’s decision to exit the PAK FA/FGFA project with Russia due to a lack of technology transfer (ToT) on the Su-57 highlights the challenges in acquiring advanced technology. Although there are speculations about acquiring Su-57s as a stopgap measure, this does not solve the long-term need for a domestically developed fifth- or sixth-generation fighter.
While India faces challenges in its fifth-generation fighter program, regional competitors are making significant strides. China has produced a substantial number of J-20 fighters and is expected to field derivatives of the J-31/35. South Korea, with its KF-21 Boramae, is poised to improve its capabilities, much like how the X-35 evolved into the F-35. Even smaller countries like Sweden and Turkey are advancing their fighter jet programs, with Turkey’s Kaan having its first flight and Sweden exploring its Flygsystem 2020 program before considering joining GCAP or FCAS.
Pakistan, with China’s support, could also attempt to develop a one-engine fighter to replace the JF-17, further intensifying the regional competition.
Given these challenges and developments, India must aim to develop at least a 5.5-generation fighter. Such an aircraft should have sufficient thrust, internal volume for advanced equipment, weapons, and fuel, and meet the demands of modern warfare. The AMCA, in its stealth configuration, may need to carry fewer weapons internally, relying on a higher probability of kill (Pk) with fewer beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVR-AAMs) and employing its cannon for close combat.
India’s sluggish progress in aerospace engine development has been a bottleneck, but there is hope. The country must clear funds for engine development, whether through the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), joint ventures, or imports. These engines will be critical for the AMCA, Medium Weight Fighter (MWF), Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF), and future advanced heavy jets.
While agencies like the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), and DRDO are stretched thin with existing projects, there is potential for collaboration with ISRO. The space agency has made significant progress in materials science and avionics, which could contribute to developing Variable Cycle Engines and other advanced technologies.
Since the days of early prototypes like the T-10 and advanced jets like the MiG-25 and F-15, Indian scientists and engineers have likely dreamt of creating a homegrown jet of similar caliber. Now, more than ever, there is a need to proceed with research and development using available resources. Achieving Western quality standards will take decades, but with steady progress, India can bridge the gap.
As India looks towards the future, the focus must be on developing a fighter jet that can meet the demands of modern warfare. The Super-Sukhoi upgrade will extend the life of the Su-30MKI fleet, but the long-term goal should be the development of a 5.5-generation or higher fighter. By leveraging domestic talent, collaborating with agencies like ISRO, and securing the necessary funding and technology, India can ensure its place in the next generation of air superiority.