Amit's Blog

India’s Fifth-Generation Fighter Dilemma Spain’s 2025 cancellation of F-35 plans underscores a global shift in fighter jet procurement, with Europe prioritizing autonomy through Eurofighter and FCAS. The F-35 program thrives with ~3,957 aircraft ordered by 19 countries, ~1,069 delivered, costing ~$100M–$150M each. India, facing delays in its AMCA program, considers F-35s or Su-57s to counter China’s J-20 (~$60M–$80M) and Pakistan’s evolving air force. Su-57s (~$70M–$100M) offer a cheaper, faster option (deliveries by 2028–2030), but F-35s face U.S. restrictions and 2030–2032 timelines. Europe’s FCAS, targeting 2040–2050, leaves a gap filled by Rafale and Eurofighter. F-35 groundings, though manageable, highlight maintenance challenges. India’s choice hinges on cost, geopolitics, and self-reliance, with AMCA and Tejas Mk2 as long-term goals. This essay explores these dynamics to dissect India’s strategic calculus in the fifth-generation fighter race.   The High-Stakes Game of ...

India's Missile Arsenal: New Developments, Costs, and Akashteer Integration  Abstract India’s missile program, a pillar of its defense strategy, is poised for significant advancements by 2030, driven by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This blog explores new missiles like Agni-VI, Surya, K-5, BrahMos-II, HSTDV, Akash-NG, XR-SAM, Rudram, and NASM-SR, detailing their expected induction (2026–2030), current (2025) and projected (2030) inventories, and integration with the Akashteer Command and Control system. Costs incurred (~₹70,000–80,000 crore by 2025) and future investments (₹80,000–150,000 crore by 2030) highlight India’s commitment to self-reliance. Appendix 1 delves into guidance systems (INS, NavIC, radar, IR, laser), comparing India’s precision capabilities with China and Russia. With NavIC and indigenous seekers achieving 1–5 meter accuracy, India rivals global powers, though it lags in hypersonic deployment. Thes...