The first video of a brand-new Chinese stealth fighter jet, believed to be a 6th-generation machine, has appeared on social media.
China Flies Brand New 6th Gen Stealth Fighter Jet
The first video of a brand-new Chinese stealth fighter jet, believed to be a 6th-generation machine, has appeared on social media. The large tail-less fighter is believed to be a strike aircraft. When inducted, these Chinese stealth fighter jets would likely become an unprecedented threat along India’s frontiers. India does not have a stealth fighter jet yet.
Satellite images showed China deployed its most advanced J-20 stealth fighter jets less than 150 km from the boundary with India in Sikkim. India counters the J-20 with its fleet of 36 French-built Rafale fighters. Significantly, Shigatse, where the Chinese J-20 has been spotted, lies less than 290 km from Hasimara in West Bengal, where India bases its 2nd squadron of 16 Rafales.
The Chengdu J-20, also known as the Mighty Dragon, is a twin-engine stealth fighter introduced into service in 2017. Some reports suggest China may already have deployed as many as 250 of the stealth fighters which are difficult to observe by radar. Sixth-generation aircraft are anticipated to be significantly stealthier and more lethal than current fifth-generation platforms such as the American F-22 and F-35, the Chinese J-20, and India’s under-development Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
These next-generation jets will feature advanced artificial intelligence, drone integration, and cutting-edge electronic warfare capabilities.
China currently has one operational fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Chengdu J-20, while the Shenyang FC-31 (J-35) is reportedly poised to enter service soon.
India’s airpower deficit
The IAF operates only 31 squadrons, far below the authorised strength of 42, according to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence. This shortfall is exacerbated by an ageing fleet and delays in key indigenous projects, including the AMCA and the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-2.
