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News18
3 days ago
- News18
What Are Stealth Fighter Jets, Which India Doesn't Have But Pakistan Will Get In 2 Months?
Last Updated: Stealth jets are specially designed aircraft that can avoid detection by radar, infrared sensors, and other surveillance systems Amid intensifying conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war and the Iran-Israel flare-up, one class of military technology is gaining rapid prominence: stealth fighter jets. These elusive aircraft, capable of slipping past enemy radars undetected, are becoming a game-changer in modern aerial warfare. While India currently operates the formidable Rafale jets, they fall short of being true stealth aircraft. Meanwhile, China's latest move to supply stealth jets to Pakistan has stirred concern, as India accelerates efforts to catch up in the 5th-generation fighter jet race. What Are Stealth Fighter Jets? Stealth jets are specially designed aircraft that can avoid detection by radar, infrared sensors, and other surveillance systems. Their airframe is built with radar-absorbent materials and angled surfaces that scatter radar waves rather than reflecting them back, rendering the plane nearly invisible to enemy detection systems. The very name 'stealth" implies secrecy. These aircraft are built to penetrate enemy territory, strike with precision, and exit without alerting radar systems. Features such as internal weapons bays, reduced infrared emissions, and specialised coatings make them extremely difficult to track. It's this near-invisibility that places stealth fighters in the elite 5th-generation category. As of now, only a few nations possess operational stealth fighter jets. The United States leads the pack with the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II. China entered the elite club in 2017 with its J-20, followed by the development of its second stealth aircraft, the J-35 (also known as FC-31). Russia, too, has deployed the Su-57, though its operational capabilities remain limited. India is yet to field a stealth jet, but the race is well underway. In 2024, the Centre greenlit the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program – a twin-engine, 5th-generation stealth fighter jet entirely designed and manufactured indigenously. It is expected to have stealth geometry, internal weapon bays, advanced data fusion systems, and supersonic speed close to Mach 2.5 (about 2,500 km per hour). The first prototype is likely by 2027, with production-ready versions slated for 2034 or beyond. Pakistan's Big Leap: China's J-35 Jets Incoming While India's stealth program is still on the runway, Pakistan is already preparing for takeoff. China has finalised a deal to supply Pakistan with 40 J-35 fifth-generation stealth jets. The first batch of 30 is expected to be delivered as early as August 2025. These jets, built by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, are designed to rival the likes of the American F-35 and are a significant upgrade for the Pakistan Air Force. The J-35 boasts a radar-evading airframe, supersonic capabilities, internal weapon storage, and next-gen avionics. Though not as advanced as China's J-20, it still represents a dramatic leap in Pakistan's air combat capabilities. Pakistani pilots are already undergoing training in China to handle these new machines. There are also reports that Pakistan is eyeing Turkey's upcoming stealth fighter, the TF-X 'Kaan", indicating Pakistan's long-term ambitions in air warfare. Until now, India and Pakistan have maintained a rough equilibrium in aerial strength, with both nations boasting skilled pilots and capable fourth-generation jets. However, the introduction of stealth jets into Pakistan's fleet could tip the scales, at least temporarily. Stealth technology offers an edge in offensive and defensive operations. Pakistan could use J-35s to conduct reconnaissance or limited strikes without early detection. From a strategic standpoint, the J-35 deal not only strengthens Pakistan's air force but also deepens its military dependence on China. What Makes Stealth Jets So Special? Several cutting-edge technologies define a stealth aircraft: Radar Evasion: Specialised materials and design ensure radar waves are absorbed or deflected, reducing the aircraft's radar cross-section. Infrared and Visual Suppression: Engine placement and thermal shielding lower heat signatures, making infrared tracking difficult. Internal Weapons Bay: Unlike older jets, stealth aircraft house weapons inside the fuselage, preserving their sleek profile. Multirole Flexibility: These aircraft are capable of both air-to-air combat and ground attack missions. Avionics & Speed: High-end sensors, real-time battlefield networking, and supersonic capabilities make them lethal and versatile. Today, only three countries – the US, China, and Russia – operate fully functional fifth-generation stealth jets. Nations like India, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, and Sweden are in various stages of development or prototype testing. While the US remains the leader, China's rapid progress and its export of stealth technology to allies like Pakistan signals a major shift in global air power dynamics. India's AMCA project is ambitious, indigenous, and critical to maintaining aerial supremacy in South Asia. While the timeline may seem distant – with full induction projected for 2034 – the project could redefine India's defence capabilities in the coming decades. For now, the gap remains, but not for long. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : China F-35 Fighter fighter jet india pakistan conflict Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published:
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
India opens bids for 5th gen stealth fighter jet, sets 2029 flight target
India has formally opened the race to build its first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter, the AMCA. In a key move to modernise the Air Force and cut foreign reliance, the government has invited Indian defence firms to bid for development. The project will involve a competitive industry partnership model and aims to deliver six squadrons by 2035. With rival China racing ahead in aerial capabilities, the AMCA is central to India's long-term security and defence self-reliance. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Open competition: Private players now have a shot Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Strict timelines, major investment Who might build it? Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads AMCA: Built in phases, designed for the future What will the AMCA bring to the table? India has launched an open call for domestic defence companies to help build its first home-grown fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) formally uploaded an expression of interest (EOI) on Wednesday to identify firms capable of co-developing and manufacturing the aircraft's prototypes, and assisting in its flight testing and move comes at a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is facing a serious shortfall in operational fighter squadrons. The count has dropped to 31, far below the sanctioned strength of 42. Meanwhile, China has already deployed its fifth-generation J-20 fighters and is reportedly advancing two sixth-generation prototypes, the J-36 and Ministry of Defence has approved a competitive execution model for the AMCA programme, ensuring both public and private companies are eligible. This breaks from the long-standing assumption that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India's state-run aircraft builder, would lead the Minister Rajnath Singh cleared the industry partnership framework on 27 May. 'Reputed Indian companies experienced in aerospace and defence sector with capability to absorb the design of AMCA and have adequate experience in the field of development & engineering, manufacturing, equipping, integration, testing, quality management, customer support etc will be shortlisted,' the EOI document ADA, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will oversee the execution. The EOI also confirms that applicants may apply as a single company, joint venture or consortium, provided they are compliant with Indian laws and AMCA contract is set for a maximum duration of eight years from the effective date. The shortlisted entity will need to set up a dedicated manufacturing facility to support eventual mass production.A pre-EOI briefing will be held in the first week of July 2025. The deadline for submissions is 16 August 2025. As per the current roadmap, the first prototype is expected to take flight by 2029. Full development should wrap up by 2034, with production likely to begin a year Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by the Prime Minister, approved the AMCA's design and development in 2023 at a cost of around ₹15,000 crore. This includes building five twin-engine likely to show interest include Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro, Adani Defence and Aerospace, and the Mahindra Group. HAL, though no longer the guaranteed frontrunner, remains in strong AMCA execution model is expected to unlock new opportunities in India's aerospace ecosystem, helping build long-term industrial capacity and reducing import dependency. For the IAF, it offers a leap forward in capability—especially as the regional security environment grows more has already placed its J-20 stealth fighters into active service. It is also producing the J-35, which Pakistan is reportedly considering buying. This gives the India-Pakistan-China theatre a new dimension, with stealth aircraft rapidly becoming the new baseline for air India has been offered foreign fifth-gen fighters—including the US F-35 and Russia's Su-57—New Delhi has chosen to stick with its indigenous plan. 'America is paving the way to provide India the F-35 stealth fighters,' said US President Donald Trump in February. Russia earlier this year proposed joint production of the Su-57 in however, has not taken up either AMCA is being developed in two distinct phases. The initial Mk-1 version will be powered by the American F-414 engine and will form the first two IAF squadrons. The Mk-2 variant will follow, featuring a more powerful engine developed in India with foreign collaboration. This second version will form the remaining four 2035, India plans to deploy six squadrons—roughly 120 aircraft. These jets are expected to become the backbone of the IAF's future force AMCA is envisioned as a 25-tonne swing-role fighter, capable of both offensive and defensive missions. Its stealth features are aimed at reducing radar detection. Internal weapon bays, super-cruise capability, 360-degree situational awareness, advanced avionics, and next-gen mission computers are all part of the ability to fly at supersonic speeds without afterburners will give it both range and endurance. And with all weapons housed internally, the aircraft will have a minimal radar footprint, crucial in modern tender marks one of the biggest openings for Indian aerospace firms to shape the future of national defence. With a defined timeline, significant financial commitment, and a clear roadmap to production, the AMCA programme offers high reward—but demands high AMCA is not just about a jet. It is about building long-term self-reliance, enhancing industrial capacity, and sending a message that India intends to lead in next-generation defence technologies.(With inputs from Reuters)
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
ADA set to shortlist Indian firms for stealth fighter project
NEW DELHI: The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) on Wednesday invited expression of interest (EOI) for the development of the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA) to shortlist Indian companies capable of building prototypes and supporting flight test and certification of the indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter. The ADA, which comes under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is executing the AMCA programme through industry partnership. The applicant may be a single company, joint venture or a consortium of companies, compliant with Indian laws and regulations, the EOI document seen by HT said. 'Reputed Indian companies experienced in aerospace and defence sector with capability to absorb the design of AMCA and have adequate experience in the field of development & engineering, manufacturing, equipping, integration, testing, quality management, customer support etc will be shortlisted,' it said. On May 27, the defence ministry unveiled its long-awaited plan to fast-track the development of AMCA, announcing that the execution model will be competitive and provide equal opportunities to public and private sector firms to participate in one of the country's most significant military projects. The approval of the industry partnership model by defence minister Rajnath Singh came at a critical moment as state-run plane maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) --- the sole manufacturer of fighter jets in the country --- was till then believed to be the frontrunner for the project. The shortlisted entity must be capable of setting up a manufacturing facility for the series production of AMCA, the EOI said. 'The duration of the contract for development, prototyping, flight test and certification of AMCA shall not exceed eight years from the effective date of contract.' A pre-EOI meeting will be held in the first week of July 2025 to provide an opportunity to the Indian firms to seek clarifications regarding the project. The deadline for EOI submission is August 16. The first prototype of the stealth fighter is expected to make its maiden flight in 2029, and AMCA's development is likely to be completed by 2034 before it goes into production a year later. The execution model unlocks new possibilities for the local aerospace industry, including firms such as Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Larsen & Toubro, Adani Defence and Aerospace and the Mahindra Group. To be sure, HAL is still a strong contender for the project. Speeding up the AMCA programme is critical as China has already deployed the J-20 fifth-generation fighters, it is rolling out the J-35 stealth fighters that Pakistan is looking at buying, and it has tested two so-called sixth-generation platforms designated J-36 and J-50. Last year, the PM-headed Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the AMCA's design and prototype development at a cost of around ₹15,000 crore. This involves the design and development of five twin-engine AMCA prototypes. The IAF's modernisation map envisages the deployment of around 120 stealth fighters (six squadrons) 2035 onwards, with the advanced planes forming an important element of future air combat. India is firmly pushing ahead with the AMCA programme even though both the United States and Russia have offered New Delhi their fifth-generation fighters. In February, US President Donald Trump said America is paving the way to provide India the F-35 stealth fighters. Earlier this year, Russia offered to jointly produce its Su-57 stealth fighter in the country. The AMCA is expected to be developed in two phases, as previously reported by HT. The first two squadrons will consist of the Mk-1 version of AMCA powered by the American F-414 engines, while the remaining four squadrons will have the more advanced Mk-2 version equipped with an even more powerful engine to be built in India with foreign collaboration. The 25-tonne AMCA will be a swing-role fighter with stealth features to increase survivability in combat, advanced avionics, smart weapons stored internally, top-end mission computers, 360-degree situational awareness, and super-cruise capability that will allow it to fly at supersonic speeds for extended periods without using fuel-guzzling afterburners.
The Star
12-06-2025
- The Star
What do we know so far about China's advanced J-36 and J-50 fighter jets?
China's two next generation stealth fighter jets – known as the Chengdu J-36 and the Shenyang J-50 – stunned the world when they seemingly emerged out of nowhere on December 26 last year. Over the past six months, more sightings and the resulting images and witness reports have given us an increasing amount of detail about the two advanced and yet mysterious aircraft. Here is what we know about them so far – as well as some of what we do not. Chengdu J-36 Also nicknamed the 'Gingko leaf' because of its shape, the name of this aircraft, developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAIC), has never been officially disclosed. It is known as the J-36 because of the serial number '36011' that was painted on the prototype jet in the first images – similar to the initial J-20, which bore the number '2001'. The J-36's distinctive diamond shape derives from its delta wing platform design, which could greatly reduce air drag when the plane is cruising at high speed. The aircraft is also distinctively tailless – essential for radar evasion. Other unique aerodynamic features include trailing edge control surfaces per wing and split flaps close to the wingtips. These configurations further streamline the airframe while making up for the loss of manoeuvrability. The J-36 is powered by an unorthodox three engines, which are believed to be the same WS-10C Taihang that is used in the J-20. They could also be upgraded to the WS-10 thrust-vectoring version or the more advanced and powerful WS-15 Emei. The engines also use different inlets, with the one on the dorsal featuring a diverterless supersonic inlet (DSI) air intake with a compression bump. The two ventral engines use Caret inlets that have adjustable ramps to ensure high-speed performance. The trio of engine exhausts is arranged in a petal design – similar to the United States' experimental YF-23 aircraft in the 1980s – which is said to provide better management of airflow temperature while reducing infrared observability. Most of the J-36's unusual design features are aimed at improving stealth, suggesting the aircraft has also been equipped with a considerable capability upgrade against radar and electro-optic detection in all directions compared to fifth-generation fighters. In its first appearance, the J-36 was accompanied by a J-20S chase plane, providing clues about its size. Based on the images from that day, the aircraft is at least as long as the 21-metre (65.6 feet) J-20, if not slightly longer, but almost double its 3-metre (9.84 feet) wingspan. The estimated size of the J-36 serves as a baseline for conjecture about its other specifications, such as its empty weight, take-off weight, speed, fuel capacity, combat range, armament capacity, and so on. The only thing we can say for sure is that this plane is significantly larger than the heavyweight fifth-gen J-20 fighter, which would allow abundant space for more armaments as well as radar and other advanced avionics. This has led to some speculation about whether the J-36 is more of a bomber. For the sake of its stealth profile, the aircraft's weapon bays are hidden, with one popular theory suggesting that its firepower could greatly exceed the J-20. According to this theory, the J-36 has one main bay in the fuselage belly that can carry up to six or eight long-range missiles, as well as two side bays, each capable of holding two smaller missiles. Another guess is that the J-36's cockpit might be twin-seated with a side-by-side seat arrangement. This has not been confirmed by clearer images, but if true, could be intended for better drone control. Shenyang J-50 There have been fewer close-up eyewitness reports about the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC) fighter compared to its Chengdu counterpart. As another tailless stealth fighter, the smaller J-50 has a number of similar aerodynamic features, including movable wingtip control surfaces to enhance stability and manoeuvrability. The J-50 has a lambda wing platform design – a shape that has been compared to a brown needletail, a large swift that gets its name from the spined ends of its tail – a conventional structure in stealth fighters that stabilises flight while reducing the radar cross-section. It is powered by two engines – possibly thrust-vectoring WS-10B/C types that would provide stronger manoeuvrability – with sophisticated DSI inlets to increase the aircraft's stealth. The J-50's size can also be estimated, thanks to its appearance alongside a J-16 in the available images. These show that it is almost the same length as a J-16 but with a wider wingspan. Because it is not as big as the J-36, there has been speculation that the J-50 could be fitted for aircraft carriers. Two symmetrical weapon bays under the fuselage are believed to be large enough for the PL-17, China's most powerful long-range air-to-air missile. Neither the Chinese military nor the two developers CAIC and SAC have made any remarks about the two aircraft, so the timetable for their development and expected service time – as well as how many are planned – is absolutely unknown. - SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
India.com
09-06-2025
- Politics
- India.com
Meet J-36, China's 6th-Generation fighter jet: Capable of dropping heavy bombs, long-range covert strike and...
New Delhi: Pictures of the massive 'J-36' stealth fighter developed by China's Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) emerged on Chinese social media, offering a glimpse into its advanced design. Referred to as the JH-XX, the aircraft is believed to be part of a new generation of long-range, strike-capable platforms being tested by the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The leaked pictures showcase a distinctive canopy design and, notably, a side-by-side seating arrangement and three open ventral weapons bays are visible in this fighter plane. It is important to note that despite the visual evidence, the exact role of the J-36 within China's military doctrine remains unclear. According to some analysts, the J-36 could serve as an air superiority fighter, while others suggest it is intended as a deep-penetration strategic bomber. Here are some of the key features of J-36 stealth fighter: According to the images available online, J-36 stealth fighter is likely to have a side-by-side two-seat cockpit. The J-36 appears larger than the J-20, suggesting it's not just a fighter jet but also capable of acting as a strategic nuclear bomber. The picture available on the social media reveals that the outline of the dual canopy and a dorsal air intake designed to feed the aircraft's central engine. Reflections on the cockpit glass suggest large Head-Up Displays (HUDs) in front of both seats. China is likely developing the J-36 as a multi-role deep penetration platform, meaning it can drop heavy bombs while operating like a fighter. The J-36 is believed to possess very long-range covert strike capability, similar to America's NGAD platform. According to the reports, there are three engines present in the aircraft. This is possibly the same model used in the J-20 stealth fighter. The presence of three engines supports the notion of a heavier payload and longer range, essential for strategic strike missions across contested environments.
