India is reportedly shifting its focus from acquiring more Rafale fighter jets to pursuing fifth-generation aircraft like the F-35 and Su-57, while also advancing its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This strategic recalibration aims to address the Indian Air Force's (IAF) immediate operational needs and prevent critical capability gaps.

Revised Procurement Strategy

The Ministry of Defence is restructuring its plan to acquire 114 new fighter jets. Instead of a direct competition, the procurement is expected to proceed through a government-to-government (G2G) agreement. The order may be divided, with a potential purchase of 60 Rafale F4 fighters from France and another 40-60 units (two to three squadrons) of a fifth-generation stealth platform from a different international partner. This approach serves as an interim measure to bolster air power while awaiting the development of the indigenous AMCA.

The Urgency for Fifth-Generation Fighters

The IAF is currently operating with approximately 31 squadrons, against a sanctioned strength of 42. The urgency to acquire fifth-generation fighters has grown amid reports that China is progressing towards sixth-generation platforms and may soon transfer its fifth-generation jets to Pakistan. The IAF is keen on acquiring advanced capabilities in the interim until the AMCA becomes a viable frontline platform.

F-35 vs. Su-57: The Contenders

The United States has offered its F-35 Lightning II, while Russia has proposed its Su-57 for India's consideration.

• F-35 Lightning II: The IAF's Integrated Air Defence (IAD) has strongly endorsed the F-35 as the preferred choice, citing its combat-proven track record, high production rate, and superior weaponry. The F-35 offers cutting-edge stealth and combat technology. With over 1,000 units delivered to NATO and allied forces, the F-35 has a robust global logistics network and proven effectiveness.
• Su-57: Moscow has reintroduced its Su-57 and has proposed co-production rights and deeper technology partnerships as part of a broader strategic industrial collaboration. Russia is willing to set up a licensed production line in India, conforming to New Delhi's "Make in India" initiative. However, the IAF has expressed skepticism towards the Su-57, rooted in its experience with the now-aborted Indo-Russian Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) program, citing shortcomings such as inadequate stealth capabilities and unreliable avionics.

Make in India Initiative

A central element of the revised plan is a strong emphasis on the 'Make in India' initiative. The Ministry of Defence will require the French manufacturer, Dassault Aviation, to establish partial assembly operations in India even for a reduced order of 60 Rafales. The IAF is expected to push for the integration of more Indian-made systems, such as advanced avionics, electronic warfare (EW) suites, and weaponry, which will help lower costs and enhance the domestic defence industry.

The Indigenous AMCA Program

India is independently developing a twin-engine fifth-generation supermaneuverable stealth multirole fighter, called the HAL Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The AMCA prototype is under construction, with a first flight expected by 2028 and induction by 2035. The AMCA is designed with low radar cross-section and supercruise capability and is seen as the successor to the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets. The AMCA program is progressing with a ?15,000 crore ($1.8 billion) budget for prototype development.

Conclusion

India's strategic shift towards acquiring fifth-generation fighter jets reflects its commitment to modernizing its air force and maintaining a competitive edge in the region. While the Rafale remains a crucial component of the IAF's fleet, the focus is now on inducting advanced stealth platforms and promoting indigenous defense production through the AMCA program. The decision between the F-35 and Su-57 will depend on various factors, including technological capabilities, strategic partnerships, and the "Make in India" initiative.