Archive · 24 Jul 2025
India Eyes Foreign Fifth-Gen Jets Amidst Air Defense Gap
India's air force wants to buy new, advanced fighter jets quickly.
They're looking at jets from the US (F-35) and Russia (Su-57) because their own new jet project isn't ready yet.
They need these jets to stay ahead of other countries, especially China.
They might buy 40-60 jets in total.
They are also planning to make more jets in India with help from other countries, as part of a 'Make in India' plan.
India is considering acquiring fifth-generation fighter jets from either the US (F-35) or Russia (Su-57) to address immediate gaps in its air combat capabilities.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is exploring the purchase of two to three squadrons, potentially involving 40 to 60 aircraft.
This decision comes as the AMCA indigenous project is years away from operational readiness and China progresses towards sixth-generation platforms.
An empowered committee has recommended the induction of fifth-generation fighters to boost deterrence and operational preparedness.
Alongside, India is evaluating a plan to manufacture 114 modern 4.5-plus generation fighters under the Make in India initiative.
- Who
- The Indian Air Force is exploring the purchase, and the government is involved in the decision-making.
- What
- India is considering acquiring fifth-generation fighter jets to boost its air combat capabilities.
- When
- The decision is in response to the delay in indigenous AMCA project.
- Where
- Discussions are underway on acquiring these fighters from either the United States or Russia.
- Why
- To address immediate gaps in air combat capabilities and maintain an edge along the borders.
Arguments for Import of Fifth-Generation Jets
Arguments Against Importing Fifth-Generation Jets
Strategic Urgency vs. Domestic Capability
Arguments for Import of Fifth-Generation Jets
The urgency to acquire advanced capabilities to counter the rising threat from China.
Arguments Against Importing Fifth-Generation Jets
Prioritizing the indigenous AMCA programme.
Operational Readiness vs. Self-Reliance
Arguments for Import of Fifth-Generation Jets
The need for immediate operational preparedness due to the long time frame for indigenous project completion.
Arguments Against Importing Fifth-Generation Jets
Opposition to the import, highlighting concerns regarding cost and foreign dependency.
- Potential Jets
- F-35 (US) and Su-57 (Russia)
- Number of Squadrons
- 2 to 3
- Aircraft Quantity (Estimate)
- 40 to 60
- Indigenous Project
- AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft)
- Initiative
- Make in India
