The Indian Air Force has seen several advancements recently. With the Rafale F3R fighters nearing full delivery and the acquisition of 12 upgraded Su-30MKIs, it has been working diligently to strengthen its position, especially in light of regional dynamics involving the Pakistani Air Force. However, a significant development three years ago involving the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has not been easily forgotten.
Three years prior, India identified through satellite imagery the deployment of the PLA’s J-20 fighter jet at Hotan airport in Tibet, a move made without prior indication. This airport is strategically located about 300 kilometers from the India-China border and approximately 900 kilometers from New Delhi. Essentially, a J-20 taking off from Hotan has the capability to operate over New Delhi.
Upon this discovery, the Indian media reported the proximity of the J-20 to the border, highlighting the strategic implications for the Indian Air Force. However, the PLA’s operations continued undeterred. The key challenge for India was the absence of a fifth-generation aircraft in its fleet.
The deployment of the J-20 in the Western Theater by the PLA Air Force was not an isolated incident. The Hotan deployment was part of a regular rotation. The PLA has aircraft such as the J-16, J-10C, and J-11BG – 4.5 generation fighters, which can competently face the Indian Air Force’s current fleet.
The J-20’s introduction in 2016 saw its initial placement with the PLA Air Force’s training base in the Western Theater. However, this deployment did not indicate a specific focus on the Indian Air Force.
The vast expanse of the Western Theater provides a favorable environment for comprehensive training. The region allows for extended training hours, fostering increased proficiency with the J-20 stealth fighter. The PLA frequently conducts significant exercises, and the J-20 often engages with 4th and 4.5 generation aircraft, facilitating the accumulation of tactical experience.
Efficient training and a series of drills have eased the J-20’s integration. As per US Air Force evaluations, the PLA Air Force operates around 200 J-20s, making it a prominent presence in contemporary air fleets.
The J-20 has seen deployments across all five PLA theaters. Its rotation in the Western Theater allows occasional glimpses of the aircraft in high-altitude operations. This expansive deployment signifies a strategic advancement in the PLA Air Force’s capabilities.
In comparison, the Indian Air Force does not currently possess stealth aircraft and has no imminent plans for their induction. Past collaborations with Russia on the Su-57 were discontinued, and India’s indigenous AMCA program is in its nascent stages, with service induction not expected before 2030.
Further, the incorporation of 4.5 generation fighters in the Indian Air Force has seen challenges. Only the Rafale F3R fighters currently meet this classification. In comparison, the PLA’s J-16s, J-10Cs, and upgraded J-11Bs, all equipped with advanced technologies, offer a comprehensive tactical advantage.
India’s air defense apparatus remains an area of focus. The acquisition of the Russian S-400 system, while significant, offers limited coverage due to the system’s number. Additionally, challenges persist in radar technology and airborne early warning capabilities.
The J-20, with its advanced stealth capabilities, represents a strategic asset with the ability to penetrate intricate defense systems. The PLA Air Force’s continuous advancements, combined with a diverse range of assets including stealth bombers and precision missiles, outline a multifaceted strategic landscape.
The deployment of the J-20 in high-altitude regions provides India with both insights and challenges. On one hand, the J-20’s non-permanent presence in Tibet offers a strategic breather. On the other, the J-20’s potential for rapid deployment along the India-China border underscores the evolving nature of regional aerial dynamics.
Reference: Wang Yanan