India sets eyes on sixth‑gen fighters, seeks tie-ups with US and Europe
India is pursuing participation in a sixth-generation aircraft program through strategic partnerships rather than starting from scratch. This initiative is driven by the urgency to keep pace with China, which already has prototypes of sixth-generation fighters. The Indian Air Force is considering collaborations with both American and European programs to expedite procurement.
- ▪The Chief of the Air Staff has stated that India is looking to join a sixth-generation aircraft program.
- ▪China has already developed flying prototypes of two separate sixth-generation aircraft.
- ▪India is examining both the Franco-German-Spanish Future Combat Air System and the UK-Japan-Italy Global Combat Air Programme.
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News/India sets eyes on sixth‑gen fighters, seeks tie-ups with US and EuropeIndia sets eyes on sixth‑gen fighters, seeks tie-ups with US and EuropeTOI News Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / May 29, 2026, 17:01 ISTCommentsShareAA+Text SizeSmallMediumLarge Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has said India is looking to participate in a sixth‑generation aircraft programme but with a twist.Rather than starting a project from scratch, the IAF is seeking strategic partnerships to fast‑track procurement of these fighters, the air chief said at an event in New Delhi last year.That urgency comes as China already has flying prototypes of two separate sixth‑generation aircraft.US President Donald Trump launched the F‑47 sixth‑generation fighter program last year from the Oval Office, although…
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