India Delays 6th-Generation Fighter Development to Mid-2040s
India has no immediate plans to develop a 6th-generation air superiority fighter until at least the mid-2040s, according to recent reports.
The Indian Air Force is currently focused on its 5th-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, which is set to fill capability gaps over the next decade.
6th-Generation Fighter to Replace Su-30MKI Fleet
The new 6th-generation fighter is envisioned as a replacement for the Su-30MKI, which has been a backbone of India’s air force since the early 2000s. By the 2040s, the Su-30MKI fleet will be approaching the end of its operational lifespan, necessitating a modern air superiority platform.
India’s Strategic Focus on AMCA
India’s defense priorities remain centered on the AMCA project, which is expected to incorporate advanced stealth technology, artificial intelligence, and network-centric warfare capabilities. The completion of this project will address current gaps in India’s air combat capabilities. The 6th-generation fighter, however, will take technological advancements further, potentially incorporating cutting-edge systems such as directed energy weapons and enhanced autonomous functionalities.
For now, India’s defense strategy is concentrated on securing and modernizing its air force to deal with contemporary and near-future threats. Development on the 6th-generation fighter is not expected to begin until well into the 2030s.
