India’s defence minister has recently approved a framework for developing the country’s most advanced stealth fighter jet.

This move comes amid heightened tensions with Pakistan, following a recent military conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

The project will be executed by India’s state-run Aeronautical Development Agency, which will soon invite defence firms to participate in creating a prototype.

The new fighter is planned as a twin-engine, 5th generation aircraft, meaning it will have advanced stealth and combat capabilities.

Currently, the Indian Air Force operates mainly Russian and ex-Soviet aircraft, and its fighter squadrons have decreased from 42 to 31, which is concerning given China’s rapid air force expansion.

Pakistan, India’s regional rival, already possesses some of China’s most advanced jets, like the J-10.

Recent fighting between India and Pakistan lasted four days, involving jets, missiles, drones, and artillery, before a ceasefire was declared by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

This conflict marked the first large-scale use of drones by both sides, and now both nations are competing in a drone arms race.

India plans to partner with a domestic private company to develop the stealth fighter, and both government-owned and private firms are invited to bid, either alone or in joint ventures.

Earlier in March, a defence committee recommended involving the private sector more in military aircraft manufacturing to strengthen India’s Air Force and ease pressure on the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), which currently dominates production.

HAL has faced criticism for slow delivery of the Tejas light combat aircraft, partly due to delays in engine supplies from the U.S. company General Electric, highlighting ongoing supply chain challenges.

The development of this new stealth fighter is crucial as it signals India’s effort to modernize its air force to keep pace with neighbouring countries’ military advancements.