India’s Defence Minister has approved the development framework for an advanced stealth fighter jet, marking a major step forward in the country’s defense capabilities as regional tensions with Pakistan continue to rise.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the state-run Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) will soon invite expressions of interest from defense companies to build a prototype of the twin-engine, fifth-generation warplane. This initiative is vital for the Indian Air Force, which currently operates with just 31 squadrons—well below the sanctioned strength of 42—while China rapidly expands its air power.
Pakistan, in contrast, has already integrated the J-10, one of China’s most sophisticated fighter jets, into its fleet.
The announcement comes weeks after a military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, during which both sides deployed fighter jets, missiles, drones, and artillery over a four-day conflict. The escalation marked the first large-scale deployment of drones by both countries, fueling what analysts now describe as a growing drone arms race in South Asia.
To enhance domestic defense manufacturing, India plans to partner with local firms for the fighter jet program. The defense ministry noted that private and public companies, either independently or through joint ventures, will be eligible to submit bids.
The move follows a March recommendation by a government defense panel advocating for greater private sector involvement in military aircraft production. The aim is to boost the Indian Air Force’s capabilities and ease the burden on state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), which currently produces most of India’s military aircraft.
India’s Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has previously criticized HAL for delays in delivering the Tejas light combat aircraft. HAL attributed the setbacks to engine supply delays from U.S.-based General Electric, caused by global supply chain disruptions.
