Can India really make 5th and 6th gene military jets? India can make 5th and 6th generation fighter jets — and it is already taking steps in that direction — but whether it will succeed depends on several factors: technology, funding, timeline, and strategic focus. Here’s a clear breakdown of the current situation: Where India Stands Now 1. 5th Generation: AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) Developer: DRDO and HAL. Stage: Final design phase. Prototype expected around 2026, first flight by 2028–29, and possible induction by 2035. Features:- Stealth (radar-absorbing materials + internal weapons bay) Supercruise capability AESA radar Advanced avionics Sensor fusion Challenges: Indigenous engine not ready; likely to use a foreign engine (GE F414 or equivalent). Requires sustained funding, political will, and timely development. 2. 6th Generation: Still Conceptual- India is studying 6th gen tech under the "Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter" (TEDBF) program and future DRDO projects. Collaboration talks (e.g., with France or UK) may support future development. Key 6th gen features would include:- AI-enabled avionics Loyal wingman drones Directed energy weapons (DEWs) Enhanced stealth and hypersonic capability India lacks testbeds for many of these techs but is making incremental progress. Strengths India Brings- Growing aerospace base (LCA Tejas, Astra missile, etc.). Experience from Tejas Mk1, Mk1A, Mk2, and HAL’s involvement in global programs (like Sukhoi, Rafale maintenance). Access to partners: U.S., France, Russia, and Israel. Willingness to invest in long-term R&D. Key Obstacles- Jet Engine Tech – India still depends on foreign engines. Stealth Materials and Testing – Need more investment in stealth R&D and testing infrastructure. Advanced Avionics and AI – Currently lagging behind U.S., China, and even Europe. Project Delays – Historic issues of delay, cost overrun, and bureaucracy. Export Viability – Competing with U.S., China, Russia, and Europe in a tight market. Comparison:- Gen India’s Project Status Compared to... 4.5 Tejas Mk1A, Su-30MKI In service Eurofighter, F-16V 5 AMCA Design stage F-35, J-20, Su-57 6 Conceptual (AMCA Mk2) Not started NGAD (USA), Tempest (UK), FCAS (EU) Bottom Line Can India make 5th gen jets? → Yes, AMCA is a serious project but success hinges on avoiding delays and achieving engine independence. Can it make 6th gen jets? → Not yet, but possible with collaboration and long-term investment. Success depends on: -Cutting dependence on imports. -Building a domestic defense ecosystem. -Staying on schedule. -Political commitment. By Jo Ikeji-Uju https://afriprime.net/pages/Anything