Maps
Magazine

WORLD NEWS

India Approves Framework for Advanced 5th-Gen Stealth Fighter Amid Pakistan Arms Race
India’s Defence Ministry approves twin-engine 5th-gen stealth fighter jet development amid Pakistan tensions; bids to be invited soon for prototype.
ND
by News Desk
2025-05-27
India Approves Framework for Advanced 5th-Gen Stealth Fighter Amid Pakistan Arms Race

India’s Defence Ministry has approved a framework to develop the country’s most advanced stealth fighter jet — a twin-engine 5th generation warplane. The project, led by the state-run Aeronautical Development Agency, will soon invite bids from both private and state-owned firms to develop a prototype.

This move comes amid a new arms race with Pakistan following a recent military conflict involving fighter jets, missiles, drones, and artillery. India’s Air Force currently operates a mix of French, Russian, and ex-Soviet aircraft but faces shortages as its squadron strength has dropped from the approved 42 to 31.

Pakistan, which possesses China’s advanced J-10 jets, reportedly used them to down Indian Rafale jets during the recent clashes. The conflict also saw the first large-scale use of drones by both sides, sparking a drone arms race in the region.

India plans to partner with domestic firms to boost indigenous military manufacturing, a shift from relying primarily on Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, which has faced criticism for delays in delivering Tejas light combat jets.

 
Tagged:

india

defense

Aerospace

StealthFighter

ArmsRace
Share News: