A-B-C OF FIGHTER JETS
WHAT INDIA SHALL BUY
SARASIJ MAJUMDER
Fighter jets are classified by GENERATIONS. In 1990, air historian Richard P. Hallion proposed a classification of jet fighters into six generations, being in operation at that time. These were broadly described as Subsonic, Transonic, Supersonic, Mach- 2, Multi-Mission, and With High-Maneuverability. Since all fighter jets are now Supersonic—the previous classification got obsolete.
From 2004, ‘Aerospace Web’ started a new classification system.
Generations now are broadly assessed based on significant and proven technological advancements achieved by them. Each generation represents a leap forward in Speed, Stealth, Avionics, Radar System, And Weaponry, impacting the overall effectiveness of the subject Fighter Jet in aerial warfare.
The exact criteria for dividing the various generation are not universally agreed upon and are having some controversies. But it definitely signifies a shift in capabilities that can’t be retrofitted to previous generation aircraft, and calls for a new generation.
However—I certainly advocate a ‘Rigid’ criteria for Classification. And instead of classifying as “4.5”, as the Dassault tries to project its present product ‘RAFAEL’, we can have a base line for Generation, and then use “+”.
And an International Committee shall decide on this classification.
We will start our discussion with 4.5 Generation, classified by ‘AEROSPACE WEB’.
And the list is submitted below:
F-15E, Su-30, MiG-35, Su-35, J-16, J-10, Stealth F/A-18E/F- (Super Hornet), Dassault Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon.
All are considered 4.5 Generation. All arrived after 2000.
However, cost wise, there is very large variation: At the lower end- same 4.5 generation is available at 40-50 MMUSD for Chinese made model, whereas, at higher end, it is 90—100 MMUSD for European/USA Model. Russian Model is somewhere in between. Certainly—the opportunity cost forms a large component.
And there is no advantage in buying a Generation 4.5 Model today! It has almost expired it’s useful time!
And the biggest problem is—manufacturer doesn’t share the ‘Source Code’—without which, the purchasing country can’t indigenize and integrate the platform with self-made weapon systems, carryout upgradation in avionics, Radar system and a whole lot of useful requirements—particularly if the purchasing country is like India—who is otherwise technically, and technologically very competent, and well advanced.
As a result—it may lose the valuable platform in Combat Situation! Then starts the ‘BLAME GAME’ by the manufacturer country!!
I certainly didn’t agree with GOI’s decision to buy ‘RAFAEL’— which was, and is quite costly, yet under performers, didn’t have any track record of serious COMBAT CHALLENGE with comparable FIGHTER JET of its class, but has lots of VOCAL GAS!
I am surprised that no expert in DRDO, HAL, or IAF could identify the problems of buying Rafael, without ‘SOURCE CODE’, even we leave aside other shortcomings! Certainly, it was not a Value for Cost platform!!
Not a single RAFAEL, to my knowledge, took part in the war of UKRAINE. MiG-29s, Su-27s, Su-25s, and Su-24Ms are used by UKRAINE’s AIR FORCE. Norway is planning to shift some F-16.
Pakistan is going to have a good number of J-35 A by end of 2025. India must have an equivalent alternative—if not superior, and soon. Rafael is decidedly inferior to J-35 A. I don’t even want to spend time, and space to discuss that!
The Su-57, a Russian 5th-generation stealth fighter, and the J-35, a Chinese stealth fighter, are both designed to compete with Western 5th-generation aircraft like the F-35, and yet much cheaper. The Su-57 is known for its superior speed and maneuverability, while the J-35 is optimized for naval use and, potentially, with better stealth characteristics. However, the J-35’s engine development and operational readiness are still being evaluated.
Key Differences are listed below:
Stealth:
The J-35 is designed to be stealthier than the Su-57, utilizing radar-evading technologies. While the Su-57 has some stealth shaping, it is not as advanced as the J-35’s. We can talk to Russia whether this aspect can be enhanced. J-35 A could be a challenge for our present ADS, and even in DOG FIGHT.
Maneuverability:
The Su-57 is known for its superior maneuverability and super cruise capabilities, allowing it to engage in dogfights effectively, after it identifies the enemy Jet. The J-35’s design, optimized for naval use, may compromise its manoeuvrability in certain scenarios. Certainly, an advantage, if we are in Enemy’s Sky.
Range:
The Su-57 has a longer unrefueled range, potentially extending to 4,500 km with external tanks. It will be an advantage against China. The J-35 is designed for carrier operations and will have a shorter range than the Su-57. Again—an advantage.
Engine:
The J-35 utilizes a WS-19 engine, while the Su-57 uses the AL-41F1 engine. The WS-19 engine’s reliability and performance are still being evaluated, while the AL-41F1 has a proven track record.
Cost:
The Su-57 is generally considered to be a more cost-effective option compared to the F-35, potentially making it an attractive alternative for countries seeking to acquire 5th-generation capabilities without the high cost associated with Western aircraft.
Overall:
The Su-57 and J-35 represent different approaches to 5th-generation fighter design. The Su-57 prioritizes maneuverability and long-range capabilities, while the J-35 emphasizes on stealth and naval deployment. But J 35A is suitable for air to air, and air to ground operations, that China is building for Pakistan.
WHAT EMERGE: —
- India shall forget F-35, and European Models and start serious negotiation with RUSSIA on acquiring SU-57 on urgent basis. Simultaneously—we will be equipped against Pakistan, and China!
- We must include ‘SOURCE CODE’, and Technology Transfer, Manufacturing in India, Free Upgradation whenever available, and complete indigenization, manufacturing spares etc. all complete in the package.
DISCLAIMER: —
BLOGGER HAS PREPARED THIS FOR PUBLIC AWARNESS. Not to criticise GOI’s decision. But—again it is public money, which shall be put to best use.
References:-
- Aeropace.org
- https://www.eurasiantimes.com/edited-hero-of-russia-declares-su-57-superior-to-j-35/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/IndianDefense/comments/1gsxn0p/russian_su57_outperforms_chinas_j35_in_every_key/
- https://www.newsweek.com/ukraine-f16-shoots-down-russia-jet-2082811
- IMAGES:– GOOGLE