Govt paves way for India to have fifth-generation fighter jets amid tensions with Pakistan

The 5th generation fighter jet programme is crucial to ensure the combat capabilities of the Indian Air Force, whose squadron strength has been depleted to 31

Updated on: May 28, 2025, 04:49:26 IST

By HT News Desk

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Weeks after military action against Pakistan under “Operation Sindoor,” India on Tuesday approved a new framework to build its own fifth-generation stealth fighter jet -- the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA).

The Indian Air Force played a critical role during India's “Operation Sindoor” by destroying terror infrastructure and other critical military installations during its retaliation against Pakistan's escalation. (REUTERS file)

The Aeronautical Development Agency, the nodal PSU for executing the programme, will shortly invite expressions of interest from defence companies to develop a prototype of the twin-engine powered 5th generation fighter jet, the defence ministry said in a statement.

Also read | Integrated Air Command and Control System: The heroes behind Operation Sindoor | See pic

According to Reuters, India will partner with a domestic company to build its 5th-generation fighter jets, and companies can bid independently or as a joint venture. The defence ministry said that these bids will be open for bidding by both private companies and state-owned entities.

In March, the Centre recommended the participation of the private sector in manufacturing military aircraft for the armed forces in an attempt to reduce the burden on state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.

HAL has been criticised in the past for the slow delivery of light combat Tejas aircraft, a 4.5 generation fighter. The PSU blamed the delay on the slow delivery of engines from General Electric due to supply chain issues faced by the US firm.

Also read | Operation Sindoor: 5 fresh updates on India's retaliation that crippled Pakistan

Crucial programme

The 5th generation fighter jet programme is crucial to ensure the combat capabilities of the Indian Air Force, whose squadron strength has been depleted to 31 from an approved strength of 42. A squadron typically comprises 16-18 aircraft.

The force played a critical role during India's “Operation Sindoor” by destroying terror infrastructure and other critical military installations during its retaliation against Pakistan's escalation.

Also read | Op Sindoor architect Air Marshal Bharti gives fresh fame and pride to parents and Purnia

Ensuring the strength of the IAF is crucial when China is rapidly expanding its air power, Reuters reported. Pakistan has the J-10, one of China's most advanced warplanes, in its arsenal.

Apart from China's J-35 fighter jets, the United States' F-22 and F-35, and Russia's Sukhoi Su-57 are operational 5th-generation fighter jets used by their armed forces.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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