Bad News for Pakistan and China: India Not Waiting for SU-57 or F-35, Focuses on Homegrown Lethal Fighter Jets
India is redefining its aerial combat power—not by importing cutting-edge foreign jets like the Russian SU-57 or American F-35, but by building deadlier indigenous fighter aircraft. This bold shift by the Indian Air Force (IAF) sends a strong signal to adversaries like Pakistan and China that India is ready to chart its own path to air superiority.
🇮🇳 India Says No to SU-57 and F-35
For years, India was seen as a potential buyer of:
Russia’s SU-57 (Fifth-generation stealth fighter)
America’s F-35 Lightning II (Multirole stealth fighter)
However, due to a mix of geopolitical strategy, cost concerns, maintenance complexity, and sovereignty goals, India has opted out of both programs.
Instead, India is now investing heavily in homegrown fighter programs designed to match or exceed regional rivals.
✈️ India’s Indigenous Fighter Jet Arsenal: More Dangerous Than Before
1. Tejas Mk2
Upgraded from Tejas Mk1A
Advanced avionics, AESA radar, increased payload capacity
Designed to replace Mirage-2000 and Jaguar fleets
Expected induction: 2026
2. Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
Fifth-generation stealth fighter under development by DRDO and HAL
Twin-engine, super-cruise capability, and radar-evading stealth design
Meant to directly counter China’s J-20 and American F-35s in capability
Prototype testing expected: 2026–27
3. TEDBF (Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter)
For Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers
To replace the need for foreign naval fighters like Rafale-M or F/A-18
Will be a Make-in-India naval stealth fighter
🔍 Why India’s Strategy Is a Wake-Up Call for Pakistan & China
Pakistan, still dependent on Chinese JF-17s and outdated F-16s, lacks stealth capability.
China’s J-20 is yet to be proven in real combat, with doubts over indigenous engine reliability.
India’s indigenous aircraft are tailored for South Asian combat requirements, offering better adaptability and lower dependency on foreign suppliers.
India’s goal: Sovereign air dominance with full tech ownership.
🛠️ Strategic Advantages of Going Indigenous
Reduced import dependency and cost overrun risks
Technology control and customization for Indian operational needs
Boost to India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem under 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'
Easier upgrades, repairs, and lifecycle support
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Why is India not buying the F-35 or SU-57 jets?
India prefers indigenous development to maintain strategic autonomy, avoid costly imports, and support local defense innovation under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Q2. How does Tejas Mk2 compare with global jets?
Tejas Mk2 will feature improved engine power, advanced radar, and multirole capability—making it competitive with 4.5-gen and some 5th-gen jets globally.
Q3. What is AMCA and when will it be ready?
AMCA is India’s fifth-gen stealth fighter in development. It’s expected to begin flight testing by 2027 and enter limited service by 2030.
Q4. Can India’s jets match China's J-20?
Yes, the AMCA is being built specifically to counter jets like the J-20, with stealth, high maneuverability, and AI-integrated avionics.
Q5. How does this affect India’s defense strategy?
It strengthens India’s long-term air combat self-reliance, reduces vulnerability to sanctions or foreign tech control, and boosts the Indian aerospace sector.
Published on: June 24, 2025
Uploaded by: Pankaj
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