Pakistan-China fighter jet plan a concern, IAF has capabilities to counter threat: Air Chief

The Indian Air Force is keeping a close watch on reports of Pakistan working with China on fifth-generation fighter aircraft, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A P Singh said on Saturday.

Speaking at the annual press conference ahead of Air Force Day, Singh described the reported development as a concern but said the IAF currently has the capabilities needed to deal with the potential threat.

“Reports suggest that Pakistan may acquire them in the near future. There are even reports that their pilots are already undergoing training in China. Undoubtedly, this is a cause for concern. However, is it a no-go situation? I wouldn't agree with that,” he said.

IAF wants faster fifth-generation aircraft induction

Singh said the effectiveness of a fighter jet depends on how it is integrated with other military systems and capabilities, rather than the aircraft alone.

“Pakistan has possessed other platforms in the past, yet they haven't been able to achieve anything significant with them during Operation Sindoor. Similarly, if we effectively integrate the platforms we are purchasing and inducting, we should be able to counter this threat—at least for the time being, until they fully integrate these new aircraft into their own systems,” the Air Chief Marshal said.

He stressed that India needs to speed up the induction of next-generation fighter aircraft and move ahead with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme.

“We must prioritise the early induction of an aircraft of this generation. We need to push the AMCA program forward; if there are delays, we must make alternative decisions,” he also added.

MRFA deal targeted for current financial year

Singh said India is looking to conclude the much-awaited multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) deal during the current financial year, subject to the ongoing process.

The government cleared a proposal in February to procure 114 Rafale fighter jets from France under a government-to-government arrangement. Price negotiations and other issues related to the acquisition are currently underway.

Russia has also offered its Su-57 fighter aircraft to India, but the IAF chief said no decision has been taken.

“Russia has offered us Su-57 jets, but no decision has been made on it,” he said.

IAF seeks more fighters and indigenous capability

Singh said the IAF needs to induct at least 36 to 40 fighter aircraft every year over the next few years to address the declining strength of its fighter squadrons.

He also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in modernising the force.

“We have to have an AI-augmented force,” he said.

Singh further stressed the need for greater self-reliance, including developing and manufacturing a fighter jet engine domestically.