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New Delhi, May 29, 2025 — In its efforts to enhance its defense capabilities, the Indian government has approved the development of a fifth-generation twin-engine stealth fighter aircraft. This comes in the wake of escalated military tensions with Pakistan following a recent four-day war.
The project will be headed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) with a goal of collaborating with domestic private and state-owned firms to construct the advanced aircraft's prototype. This project is part of India's broader strategy of modernizing its air force and reducing dependence on foreign military technology.
The Indian Air Force is presently short of its sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons, most of it employing vintage Russian and Soviet-era aircraft. Pakistan, however, has recently augmented air power with the induction of advanced J-10 fighter jets from China.
The recent war between India and Pakistan witnessed extensive use of drones, a new trend in warfare tactics, and underlining the requirement for India to modernize aerial warfare infrastructure.
Similarly, India's homegrown Kaveri jet engine project has seen a revival. The engine, which was initially under development for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, has been languishing for years due to technical problems and a paucity of funds. It was recently sent to Russia for advanced tests, pointing towards reviving the project.
Sanctioning of the stealth fighter programme is a milestone in India's pursuit of defense technology independence, seeking to enhance national security in the face of evolving regional situations.
External Links:
- India approves stealth fighter programme amid tensions with Pakistan — Reuters
- #FundKaveriEngine trend gains strength as India sends its indigenous fighter jet engine for testing in Russia — Economic Times