India's Strategic Shift: Accelerating AMCA Development in Response to Rafale's Limitations Against Stealth Adversaries

A recent analysis by the French Institute of International Relations (Ifri) has cast a spotlight on the Dassault Rafale's challenges in countering advanced stealth fighters. This revelation has significant implications for nations operating the Rafale, notably India, which has inducted 36 of these jets into its air force.

Rafale's Design and Stealth Capabilities

The Rafale, developed by Dassault Aviation, is celebrated for its versatility and combat performance. However, it is categorized as a 4.5-generation fighter, lacking the full stealth features inherent to fifth-generation aircraft like the American F-35 or the Chinese J-20. While the Rafale incorporates certain stealth elements to reduce its radar cross-section, it does not achieve the low observability that defines true stealth fighters.

Challenges in Modern Aerial Combat

The Ifri report underscores the Rafale's difficulties in engaging stealth-equipped adversaries. In simulated combat scenarios, Rafale pilots have encountered significant obstacles when facing fifth-generation stealth fighters. The report concludes that, with the current sensor technology, missions against such stealth opponents are "impossible to win."

Implications for the Indian Air Force

For the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has integrated the Rafale into its fleet, this assessment is particularly concerning. Neighboring countries, notably China with its J-20 and Pakistan's potential acquisition of the J-35A, are advancing their fifth-generation fighter capabilities. This evolving dynamic could erode India's aerial superiority in the region.

Accelerating the AMCA Program

In response to these challenges, India is expediting the development of its indigenous fifth-generation fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This ambitious project, led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), aims to produce a stealth aircraft equipped with advanced avionics, supercruise capabilities, and artificial intelligence-driven systems.

The AMCA program has made notable progress:

• Design and Development: The project entered the detailed design phase in February 2019, with the first prototype rollout anticipated by 2026.

• First Flight: The inaugural flight is targeted for 2028, with the aircraft expected to enter service by 2035.

• Engine Collaboration: India is in discussions with international partners, including Safran and Rolls-Royce, to co-develop a new engine for the AMCA, with a decision expected by mid-2025.

Enhancing Rafale's Capabilities

Concurrently, the IAF is exploring upgrades to the existing Rafale fleet to bolster its effectiveness against stealth threats. Potential enhancements include advanced radar systems, electronic warfare suites, and integration of new weaponry. Collaborations with France and other defense partners are being considered to implement these upgrades.

Strategic Outlook

The insights from the Ifri report highlight the rapidly evolving landscape of aerial warfare, emphasizing the critical importance of stealth technology. India's proactive measures, encompassing the acceleration of the AMCA program and the modernization of its current fleet, reflect a strategic commitment to maintaining air dominance and addressing emerging security challenges in the region.