What do Chinese stealth fighters on a Tibetan base mean for India

• Source – Indian express
• Link – https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/what-do-chinese-stealth-fighters-on-a-tibetan-base-mean-for-india-9426988/
• Syllabus – GS Paper 02
• Topic – Indian Relations

What is the issue?

The recent deployment of China’s advanced J20 and J10 fighters at Tibet’s Shigatse air base has sparked comparisons with India’s 4.5 generation Rafale fighters, emphasizing the critical need for India to maintain and enhance its air defense capabilities.

What are the concerns?

1. Slow Response and Declining Combat Air Power: India faces a declining combat air power, exacerbated by a slow government response to address this urgent issue.
2. Insufficient Air Power: With extensive hostile borders and sovereign airspace, India’s current fleet, including two squadrons of 4.5 generation Rafales, may not suffice to meet present and future security challenges.
3. Delayed Development of AMCA: India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), faces delays, leaving a significant capability gap against China’s advancements towards sixth-generation fighters.
4. Obsolescence Risk: Upgraded fleets like MiG29, Mirage 2000, and Jaguar face the risk of obsolescence before the AMCA becomes operational, further depleting India’s high-end platform inventory.
5. Delayed Induction of Tejas and AMCA: The delayed timelines for Tejas Mk 1A, Mk 2, and AMCA could potentially allow China to alter the regional military balance irreversibly in its favor.

Strategic Implications for India:

1. China’s Growing Airborne Capabilities: China’s deployment of diverse aircraft and early warning systems demonstrates its growing ability to conduct extensive and complex operations over significant distances, posing strategic challenges for Indian defense.
2. Buffer Zones and No Fly Zones: Potential creation of buffer zones and no-fly zones in disputed areas could restrict Indian Air Force (IAF) operations, impacting intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and logistical capabilities.

What needs to be done?

1. Fulfillment of MRFA Requirement: Urgently fulfill the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) requirement to bolster the inventory of 4.5-generation fighters, enhancing operational capabilities and readiness.
2. Bilateral Partnership with France: Strengthen bilateral cooperation with France for additional joint production of Rafales in India. This partnership would:
   • Ensure steady induction from a reliable partner.
   • Enhance platform commonality and facilitate future upgrades.
   • Provide access to technology transfers for advanced variants and engine development crucial for AMCA.
   • Reduce dependence on single-source suppliers and mitigate risks associated with volatile international defense markets.

India’s ability to maintain and enhance its air defense capabilities is imperative in the face of evolving regional challenges, particularly China’s expanding airborne capabilities. Swift procurement and development of advanced fighter aircraft, strategic partnerships, and robust indigenous production are essential for safeguarding national security and maintaining regional stability.