650: INDIA ENTERS THE LASER AGE: MK-II(A) DEW USHERS IN A NEW ERA OF DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY

 

My article published on The EurasianTimes website on 16 Apr 25.

 

India successfully tested its first high-energy laser weapon, the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW), on April 13, 2025, at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the 30-kilowatt laser system demonstrated the ability to neutralise fixed-wing, swarm, and surveillance sensors precisely at ranges up to 5 kilometers. The weapon can engage targets at the speed of light, using a laser beam to cause structural failure or destroy warheads, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional ammunition with minimal collateral damage.

The test places India among a select group of nations, including the US, China, and Russia, with advanced laser weapon capabilities. DRDO plans to induct the land-based system within two years, with future upgrades for greater range and applications on ships, aircraft, and satellites. A more powerful 300-kilowatt “Surya” laser capable of targeting high-speed missiles and drones up to 20 kilometers away. Posts on social media highlight the weapon’s potential to counter aerial threats effectively.

Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) represent a transformative leap in military technology. They harness concentrated energy to neutralise threats with unprecedented precision and speed, a feat once only a part of science fiction. Unlike conventional munitions, which rely on physical projectiles or explosives, DEWs deliver energy through lasers, microwaves, or particle beams to disable or destroy targets.

 

Directed Energy Weapons

At their core, DEWs operate by focusing energy to create destructive effects. The most prominent type, laser-based DEWs, emit highly focused beams of light that travel at the speed of light (approximately 300,000 kilometers per second). When this beam strikes a target, it transfers intense heat, causing structural failure, melting critical components, or detonating warheads. For instance, India’s 30-kilowatt Mk-II(A) laser demonstrated its ability to neutralise drones and sensors up to 5 kilometers away by inducing catastrophic overheating in seconds.

Microwave-based DEWs, another category, emit electromagnetic pulses to disrupt or destroy electronic systems. These are particularly effective against swarms of drones or missile guidance systems, as they can disable multiple targets simultaneously within a wide area. Though less developed, particle beam weapons accelerate charged particles to damage targets at the molecular level, offering potential for future applications.

The advantages of DEWs are manifold. They require no physical ammunition, reducing logistical burdens and costs—engagements are estimated to cost mere dollars per shot compared to thousands for missiles. This cost-effectiveness is a significant advantage in modern warfare. Their speed-of-light delivery ensures near-instantaneous impact, critical for countering fast-moving threats like hypersonic missiles. Additionally, DEWs produce minimal collateral damage, making them ideal for precision strikes in populated areas.

 

Historical Context and Global Development

The concept of DEWs dates back to science fiction, with early inspirations from works like H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds. However, serious development began during the Cold War, with the United States and Soviet Union exploring laser technologies for missile defence. This historical context provides a deeper understanding of the evolution of technology. The U.S. Strategic Defence Initiative in the 1980s, often dubbed “Star Wars,” aimed to deploy space-based lasers to intercept ballistic missiles, though technological limitations stalled progress.

In recent decades, advancements in power generation, beam control, and thermal management have brought DEWs closer to battlefield reality. The United States has led the charge, with systems like the Navy’s 150-kilowatt Laser Weapon System (LaWS) deployed on ships to counter drones and small boats. Israel’s Iron Beam, designed to complement the Iron Dome, uses lasers to intercept rockets and mortars cost-effectively. China and Russia have also invested heavily, with China’s Silent Hunter laser system reportedly capable of disabling vehicles and drones, and Russia’s Peresvet laser designed for air defence and satellite disruption. These developments can potentially reshape international relations as countries with advanced DEW capabilities gain new strategic advantages.

 

Applications in Modern Warfare

DEWs are poised to revolutionise defence across multiple domains. On land, they offer robust protection against drones, a growing threat in asymmetric warfare. The proliferation of low-cost drones, as seen in conflicts like Ukraine, has exposed vulnerabilities in traditional air defences. Laser systems provide a sustainable countermeasure with their low per-shot cost and unlimited “magazine” (limited only by power supply). For example, India’s Mk-II(A) successfully neutralised a swarm of drones, a capability critical for border security.

DEWs enhance naval defence against anti-ship missiles, small boats, and unmanned aerial vehicles at sea. The U.S. Navy’s High Energy Laser with Integrated Optical-Dazzler and Surveillance (HELIOS) system, integrated into destroyers, exemplifies this trend. For India, equipping warships with laser systems could strengthen maritime security in the Indian Ocean, a vital trade corridor.

In the air, DEWs are being developed for aircraft to counter incoming missiles. The U.S. Air Force’s Self-Protect High Energy Laser Demonstrator (SHiELD) aims to equip fighter jets with laser pods for missile defence. India’s vision to mount lasers on aircraft could enhance its air superiority, particularly against regional adversaries with growing missile arsenals.

Space-based DEWs, though controversial, represent the next frontier. Lasers could disable enemy satellites or defend against anti-satellite weapons, securing critical communication and reconnaissance assets. India’s planned satellite-mounted lasers underscore its intent to safeguard its space infrastructure.

 

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their promise, DEWs face significant hurdles. Atmospheric conditions like rain, fog, or dust can scatter or weaken laser beams, reducing their effectiveness. India’s DRDO addresses this through advanced beam control systems, but challenges persist in diverse terrains like the Himalayas. Power requirements also pose a barrier—high-energy lasers demand substantial electricity, necessitating compact, efficient generators. For mobile platforms, this remains a logistical challenge.

Cost and scalability are additional concerns. While DEWs are cheaper per shot, initial development and deployment costs are high. India’s Mk-II(A) required years of investment, and scaling to systems like the Surya laser will demand further resources. Finally, countermeasures like reflective coatings or electronic hardening could reduce DEW effectiveness, sparking an arms race in defensive technologies. It’s important to note that while DEWs offer significant advantages, they are not without vulnerabilities. Developing effective countermeasures will be a key area of focus in the future.

 

Future of Directed Energy Weapons

The global DEW market is expected to grow rapidly, fuelled by increasing threats from drones, missiles, and electronic warfare. India’s roadmap, which includes the induction of the Mk-II(A) by 2027 and the development of the Surya laser, positions the country as a key player. Collaborative efforts with allies could hasten progress, while indigenous innovation ensures strategic autonomy.

Beyond military applications, DEWs have the potential for civilian uses, such as removing space debris or disaster response (e.g., disabling hazardous objects). Their integration into multi-layered defence systems—combining lasers, missiles, and electronic warfare—will redefine warfare as technology matures.

 

Conclusion

Directed Energy Weapons mark a paradigm shift in defence, offering speed, precision, and economy unmatched by traditional systems. India’s successful test of the Mk-II(A) laser underscores its emergence as a technological power, capable of shaping the future of warfare. While challenges remain, the trajectory is clear: DEWs are not just the stuff of science fiction but a cornerstone of 21st-century security. As nations race to master this technology, the balance of power—and the ethics of its use—will shape the decades ahead.

 

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Peresvet, Iron Beam, LaWS & Now India’s Mk-II(A)! How Directed Energy Weapons Could Revolutionize 21st-Century Warfare

 

References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

Pics Courtesy: Internet

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

 

References: –

  1. DRDO Press Release. “Successful Test of Mk-II(A) Laser Directed Energy Weapon Conducted by DRDO.” April 13, 2025.
  1. Firstpost. (2025, April 13). India’s ‘Star Wars’ weapon! DRDO tests laser that melts aerial threats. https://www.firstpost.com/india/indias-star-wars-weapon-drdo-tests-laser-that-melts-aerial-threats-13834676.html
  1. India Today. (2025, April 13). DRDO tests laser-based weapon system. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/drdo-laser-weapon-system-destroys-drones-missiles-test-kurnool-andhra-pradesh-2527665-2025-04-13
  1. LiveMint. (2025, April 13). In a first, India shoots down drones with laser weapon. https://www.livemint.com/news/india/in-a-first-india-shoots-down-drones-with-laser-weapon-joins-elite-league-of-nations-watch-video-11742305443609.html
  1. NDTV. (2025, April 13). India’s first futuristic “Star Wars” laser weapon. https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/indias-first-futuristic-star-wars-laser-weapon-shoots-down-drone-swarm-5420597
  1. The Hindu. (2025, April 13). DRDO tests directed energy weapon system. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/drdo-tests-directed-energy-weapon-system-that-can-disable-drones-missiles/article68989626.ece
  1. Gormley, Dennis M. Directed Energy Weapons: Technologies, Applications and Implications. RAND Corporation, 2000.
  1. Kopp, Carlo. “Directed-Energy Weapons: Physics of High-Energy Lasers (HELs).” Defence Today, vol. 6, no. 4, 2008.
  1. Freedberg, Sydney J. Jr. “Lasers, Railguns & Directed Energy: The Future of War?” Breaking Defence, 2017.
  1. Defence Update. “Directed Energy Weapons: Changing the Face of Modern Warfare.” 2024.
  1. and International Studies (CSIS). Directed Energy and the Future Battlefield. CSIS Report, 2023.

646: PRECISION FROM AFAR: INDIA’S GLIDE BOMBS AND THE CHANGING FACE OF WARFARE

 

My Article was published on the EurasianTimes Website

on 13 April 25.

 

In early April 2025, India successfully tested two indigenously developed glide bombs. The first, Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named “Gaurav,” was tested between April 8 and 10, 2025, from a Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF). This 1,000-kg class bomb, designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Research Centre Imarat, Armament Research and Development Establishment, and Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, demonstrated a range close to 100 kilometers with pinpoint accuracy. The trials involved multiple warhead configurations and targeted a land-based site on an island, paving the way for its induction into the IAF. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat praised the achievement, highlighting its role in enhancing India’s standoff strike capabilities and self-reliance in defence technology.

The second was the lightweight “Glide” bomb, called the SAAW (Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon), which the IAF and DRDO test-fired in Odisha. The SAAW is a lightweight, precision-guided bomb designed to target enemy airfields, runways, bunkers, and other reinforced structures at ranges up to 100 kilometers. Weighing approximately 125 kilograms, it features advanced guidance systems, including electro-optical sensors, for high accuracy. The weapon has been integrated with platforms like the Jaguar and Su-30 MKI, with plans to equip it on the Dassault Rafale and HAL Tejas MK1A. Three tests were carried out under varying release conditions and ranges, all successful. The DRDO Chairman announced that the SAAW is set for imminent induction into the armed forces, enhancing India’s precision-guided munitions arsenal.

These developments underscore India’s push toward indigenous defence solutions amid regional competition. Both bombs offer cost-effective, accurate, and standoff strike options to engage targets while keeping aircraft beyond enemy air defences. In the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, long-range glide bombs have emerged as a transformative technology, blending precision, affordability, and strategic flexibility. These munitions, designed to glide over extended distances to strike targets with pinpoint accuracy, have redefined how militaries project power, neutralise threats, and minimise risks to personnel and assets.

 

Long-Range Glide Bombs

Long-range glide bombs, sometimes called standoff glide munitions, are unpowered or minimally powered precision-guided weapons that rely on aerodynamic lift to travel extended distances after being released from an aircraft. Unlike traditional free-fall bombs, glide bombs have wings or fins that allow them to glide toward their target, often covering ranges from tens to hundreds of kilometers. They typically incorporate advanced guidance systems—such as GPS, inertial navigation, or laser homing—to ensure accuracy, even against moving or heavily defended targets.

The effectiveness of long-range glide bombs lies in their simplicity and adaptability. A typical glide bomb consists of several key components:-

    • Warhead. The explosive payload can range from 100 kilograms to over a ton, depending on the target. Warheads may be high-explosive, bunker-busting, or fragmentation-based.
    • Guidance System. Most glide bombs use a combination of GPS and inertial navigation for all-weather accuracy. Some advanced models incorporate laser or infrared seekers for terminal guidance, enabling strikes on moving targets.
    • Aerodynamic Surfaces. Foldable wings or fins provide lift, allowing the bomb to glide efficiently. The glide ratio—distance travelled per unit of altitude lost—determines the weapon’s range.
    • Control Unit. An onboard computer processes navigation data and adjusts control surfaces to keep the bomb on course.

When deployed, a glide bomb is released at a high altitude (typically 30,000–40,000 feet) and high speed. The launch aircraft’s momentum and altitude provide the initial energy, while the bomb’s wings extend to maximise the glide distance. As it descends, the guidance system corrects its trajectory, ensuring it hits within meters of the intended target. Some systems, like the U.S.’s Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) GBU-39, can achieve ranges exceeding 100 kilometers under optimal conditions.

These munitions bridge the gap between conventional bombs and cruise missiles. While cruise missiles are self-propelled and highly autonomous, they are expensive and complex. Glide bombs, by contrast, are more cost-effective.

 

Historical Context and Global Developments

The concept of glide bombs dates back to World War II, with early examples like Germany’s Fritz-X, a radio-guided bomb used to attack ships. However, these primitive weapons lacked the range and precision of modern systems. The development of long-range glide bombs gained momentum in the late 20th century as advancements in electronics, aerodynamics, and satellite navigation enabled greater accuracy and standoff capabilities.

The U.S. military’s Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) program, introduced in the 1990s, marked a significant milestone. JDAM kits transform unguided “dumb” bombs into precision-guided munitions by adding tail fins and GPS guidance. While early JDAMs had limited range, subsequent variants like the JDAM-ER (Extended Range) incorporated foldable wings, extending their reach to over 70 kilometers. Other nations, including Russia, China, and European powers, have since developed their glide bomb systems, such as Russia’s KAB-500 series and China’s LS-6 precision-guided bombs.

Recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East, have showcased the growing prominence of glide bombs. For example, Russia has extensively used glide bombs like the FAB-500-M62 with UMPK kits, allowing Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft to strike targets from beyond the reach of short-range air defences. Similarly, Western-supplied glide bombs, such as France’s AASM Hammer, have been employed by Ukraine to target Russian positions with high precision.

 

Strategic Advantages

Long-range glide bombs offer several strategic benefits that make them indispensable in modern warfare:-

    • Standoff Capability. Gliding bombs allow aircraft to strike from beyond the range of enemy air defences, reducing the risk to pilots and platforms. This is particularly valuable against adversaries with sophisticated surface-to-air missile systems.
    • Cost-Effectiveness. Compared to cruise missiles, which can cost millions per unit, glide bombs are far cheaper. For example, a JDAM-ER kit costs around $20,000–$40,000, making it a budget-friendly option for precision strikes.
    • Versatility. Glide bombs can be tailored to various targets, from fortified bunkers to mobile convoys. Modular warheads and guidance systems allow militaries to adapt them for specific missions.
    • Mass Deployment. Because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to produce, glide bombs can be used in large numbers to overwhelm defences or saturate key targets.
    • Reduced Collateral Damage. Precision guidance minimises unintended destruction, making glide bombs suitable for urban environments or near civilian infrastructure.

 

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their advantages, long-range glide bombs are not without drawbacks. Their unpowered nature makes them dependent on the launch platform’s altitude and speed, limiting their range compared to powered missiles. Additionally, while GPS guidance is efficient, it can be disrupted by electronic jamming or spoofing, as seen in conflicts like Ukraine, where Russian forces have employed electronic warfare to degrade GPS-dependent munitions. Glide bombs are also vulnerable to advanced air defences if launched within the interceptors’ range. For instance, systems like the Patriot or S-400 can engage glide bombs at certain altitudes and distances.

 

Global Proliferation and Future Trends

The proliferation of long-range glide bombs is reshaping global military dynamics. Countries like India, Turkey, and South Korea are investing heavily in indigenous glide bomb programs. At the same time, non-state actors and smaller nations seek access to these technologies through exports or reverse-engineering. This democratisation of precision strike capability could complicate future conflicts, enabling asymmetric actors to challenge stronger adversaries.

Future advancements in artificial intelligence and autonomous navigation will likely enhance glide bomb capabilities. AI-driven guidance could allow bombs to adapt to jamming or dynamically select targets in real time. Hypersonic glide bombs, which combine high speed with extended range and are also under development, promise to blur the line between bombs and missiles further.

 

Conclusion

Strategically, glide bombs shift the balance between offense and defence. By enabling standoff strikes, they challenge traditional air defence paradigms, forcing adversaries to invest in more advanced countermeasures. This arms race could drive up military spending and destabilise regions already prone to conflict.

Long-range glide bombs represent a pivotal evolution in precision warfare, offering militaries a cost-effective, versatile, and low-risk means of projecting power. Their ability to strike from a distance accurately has made them a cornerstone of modern arsenals, from superpowers to emerging nations. However, their proliferation and potential for misuse underscore the need to consider their ethical and strategic implications carefully. As technology advances, glide bombs will likely play an even more significant role in shaping the battlefields of tomorrow, balancing destructive power with the promise of precision.

 

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

Pics Courtesy: Internet

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

References:

  1. Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India. “Successful Flight-Test of Indigenous Glide Bombs ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”. PIB, April 11, 2025.
  1. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), “DRDO Conducts Successful Trials of ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Glide Bombs”, DRDO, April 10, 2025.
  1. The Hindu, “India Successfully Tests Indigenous Glide Bombs ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”, The Hindu, April 12, 2025.
  1. Hindustan Times, “DRDO’s ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Glide Bombs Set for Induction into IAF”, Hindustan Times, April 12, 2025.
  2. Livefist Defence, “Inside India’s Glide Bomb Program: ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Take Flight”, Livefist Defence, April 11, 2025.
  1. Observer Research Foundation (ORF), “India’s Glide Bomb Advancements: Strategic Implications and Regional Dynamics”, ORF, April 2025.
  1. Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), “Enhancing Precision Strike Capabilities: The Role of ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”, IDSA, April 2025.
  1. Jane’s Defence Weekly. “DRDO’s Gaurav and Gautham: India’s Smart Glide Bombs Take Shape.” Janes.com, August 2023.
  1. IISS. “India’s Precision Strike Capabilities: Strategy and Deployment.” Strategic Dossier, International Institute for Strategic Studies, 2023.
  1. Defence Decode. “Gaurav vs Gautham: Decoding India’s New Air-Launched Precision Bombs.” YouTube / Defence Decode Channel, March 2024.
  1. RAND Corporation. “Emerging Military Technologies in South Asia: Glide Bombs and Beyond.” RAND Brief, 2023.

596: FUTURE TRENDS OF FIGHTER AIRCRAFT

 

 

My article was published in the SP Aviation’s Yearbook in February 2025.

 

The evolution of fighter aircraft, a testament to the unyielding quest for air superiority and technological dominance, is a journey that never ceases to amaze. It’s a captivating journey punctuated by lightning-fast technological strides, dynamic tactical doctrines, and the ever-shifting demands of aerial combat. The ability of these machines to adapt and evolve, constantly morphing to meet the needs of modern warfare, is truly awe-inspiring.

 

Historical Evolution. The first fighter aircraft made their debut during World War I. They were basic biplanes constructed from wood and fabric, primarily used for reconnaissance. As machine guns were installed, their role evolved to dogfighting. With significant technological advancements, aircraft transitioned to more robust metal frames during interwar. World War II propelled fighter aircraft development. Speed, agility, and firepower skyrocketed. The war’s end witnessed the advent of jet propulsion, signifying the shift from piston engines to jet engines. The Cold War era saw the birth of supersonic fighters and the introduction of guided missiles. Aircraft like the F-86 Sabre and MiG-15 gained fame during the Korean War, marking a significant shift in aerial combat. Later, more advanced fighters like the F-4 Phantom II and MiG-21 emerged, capable of air superiority and ground attack roles. The latest generation of fighters, such as the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II from the United States and the Su-57 from Russia, are designed with a strong emphasis on stealth, advanced avionics, and multirole capabilities. China also boasts that its indigenous Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang FC-31 are of equal calibre. These latest fighter aircraft are engineered to dominate in electronic warfare environments and execute various missions, demonstrating modern fighter aircraft’s diverse roles and capabilities.

 

Classification of Fighter Aircraft

 

The classification of fighter jets into different generations is a testimony to the pivotal role of technological innovation in shaping these aircraft’s evolution.  Each generation represents a particular class of technology used in the aircraft, such as avionics, systems, design, features, engines, and weapons. A higher generation signifies a more technologically advanced aircraft. A generational shift occurs when a technological innovation cannot be incorporated into an existing aircraft through upgrades and retrospective fit-outs. The primary classification of fighter aircraft into five generations, with the development of a sixth generation underway, is widely accepted and recognised. Some accounts have further subdivided the 4th generation into 4 and 4.5, or 4+ and 4++.

 

    • The first generation of subsonic jet fighters emerged during and after the final years of World War II, a period marked by significant technological and geopolitical changes. Similar to their piston-engine contemporaries, these aircraft were primarily made of wood and light alloy and had generally straight wings. Their main feature was a significant speed increase over their predecessors, which they achieved with the introduction of the swept wing. They were equipped with basic avionic systems, no radars or self-protection countermeasures, and were armed with machine guns or cannons and unguided bombs and rockets.  These aircraft were primarily designed for the air-superiority interceptor role. Examples of this generation include Meteor, de Havilland Vampire, F-86 Sabre, McDonnell FH-1 Phantom, and Mig 15 and 17.

 

    • The second generation of fighter jets, a product of significant technological breakthroughs and lessons learned from aerial warfare, notably the Korean War of 1950-1953, saw substantial advancements. These aircraft had higher speeds, including sustained transonic and supersonic dash capabilities, and featured rudimentary fire control radar and the use of guided air-to-air missiles. The second-generation fighters also incorporated advances in engine design, such as afterburners and aerodynamics, like swept wings, which allowed them to reach and sustain supersonic speeds in level flight. They introduced air-to-air radar, infrared and semi-active guided missiles, and radar warning receivers. While air-to-air combat was still within visual range, radar-guided missiles extended the engagement ranges and accuracy. The aircraft were divided into interceptors and fighter-bombers based on their roles. Examples of this generation include Lockheed F-104 Starfighter, MiG-19 and 21, Hawker Hunter, and Dassault Mirage III.

 

    • The third generation of fighters, a significant milestone in the evolution of fighter aircraft, were designed to be multirole fighters capable of performing air defence and ground attack missions. They could carry a wide range of weapons, such as air-to-ground missiles and laser-guided bombs, while also engaging in air-to-air interception beyond visual range. These aircraft could sustain supersonic flight, carrying improved fire control radars, semi-active air-to-air missiles, and the first generation of tactical electronic warfare systems. The advent of more economical turbofan engines brought extended range and endurance, increased thrust, better performance and manoeuvrability. Some designers even resorted to variable geometry or vector thrust. This generation witnessed significant enhancements in the avionic suites and weapon systems. The supporting avionics included pulse-doppler radar, off-sight targeting and terrain-warning systems. Doppler radar supported a ‘lookdown/shoot-down’ capability with off-bore-sight targeting and semi-active guided radio frequency missiles. The significant change brought about by this generation of aircraft was that it was no longer necessary to visually acquire opponents to neutralise them and gain control of the air. Some examples include the McDonnell Douglas F4H Phantom, Mig-23 and Mig-25, Sukhoi series (15-22), British Aerospace Harrier, and Dassault Mirage F-1.

 

    • Fourth-generation jet fighters debuted in the mid-1970s and are still used in most air forces. This generation is the longest-lasting of the five generations so far. This generation of fighter jets is mostly multi-role aircraft that can switch and swing roles between air-to-air and air-to-ground, unlike the previous role-dedicated aircraft. This, in turn, blurred the distinction between air defence and ground attack missions. Fly-by-wire control systems improved the manoeuvrability of these aircraft at the expense of aerodynamic instability. These aircraft introduced more efficient and powerful turbofan jet engines, allowing greater than one thrust-to-weight ratio. The use of composite materials in their construction revolutionised stealth technology. Electronics was the essential part of these aircraft, including ‘look-down’ Doppler fire-control radars, fly-by-wire flight control systems, integral and podded EO/IR targeting sensors, laser and GPS-guided precision weapons, active air-to-air missiles, heads-up displays, and improved electronic warfare systems. Grumman F-14 Tomcat, McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle and F-18 Hornet, General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, MiG-29 and MiG-31, Sukhoi Su-27, Dassault Mirage 2000, Saab Viggen, Chengdu J-10, and Hindustan LCA are some of the examples.

 

    • Four-and-a-half generation jet fighters emerged in the late 1980s and ’90s. The 4.5 generation aircraft are fourth-generation fighters with essential characteristics of fourth-generation planes but enhanced capabilities provided by more advanced technologies seen in fifth-generation fighters. The concept of having a half-generation increment stemmed from a forced reduction in military spending at the end of the Cold War, resulting in a restriction on aircraft development. It became more cost-effective to add new, improved features to existing platforms. Later variants of 4th gen aircraft progressively enhanced their characteristic technologies and incorporated emerging fifth-generation technologies, leading them to be classified as an intermediate generation (4.5 4+ or 4++). These aircraft have advanced digital avionics based on microchip technology and highly integrated systems. They are adapted to operate in high-tech warfare where avionic and super manoeuvrability is the key to success. Their features include stealth, radar absorbent materials, thrust vector controlled engines, greater weapons carriage capacity and extended range and endurance. Adding an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar is a significant enough game-changing combat capability. The AESA radar allows fighter aircraft to perform a limited Airborne Early Warning and Control function. Advances in computer technology and data links also allowed 4.5 generation fighters to be integrated into a network-centric battle space where fighter aircraft have much greater scope to conduct multi-role missions. Examples include Boeing F-18E/F Super Hornet, Sukhoi Su-30/33/35, Eurofighter Typhoon, Saab Gripen, and Dassault Rafale.

 

    • A fifth-generation fighter is a jet fighter aircraft that includes major technologies developed during the first part of the 21st century. As of date, these are the most advanced fighters in operation. A quantum improvement in the fighter’s lethality and survivability has been a qualifying requirement to achieve generational change in aircraft design. The characteristics of a fifth-generation fighter are not universally agreed upon. The technologies that best epitomise fifth-generation fighters are advanced integrated avionics systems that provide the pilot with a complete picture of the battle space and the use of low observable “stealth” techniques. 5th Generation AC typically includes stealth, low-probability-of-intercept radar (LPIR), agile airframes with supercruise performance, advanced avionics features, and highly integrated computer systems capable of networking with other elements within the battle space for situation awareness and C3 (command, control and communications) capabilities. Improved situational awareness is achieved through multi-spectral sensors located across all aspects of the airframe, allowing the pilot to ‘look’ through the aircraft’s airframe without having to manoeuvre the fighter to obtain a 360-degree picture. These aircraft are also ‘born’ and networked, allowing them to receive, share, and store information to enhance the battle space picture. Fifth generation fighter capabilities are largely defined by their software, and the ongoing development of their software will ensure they maintain their edge against evolving threats. Fifth-generation aircraft allow the pilot to maintain decision superiority over an adversary. This provides greater chances of survivability, which, combined with effective lethality, assures battle space dominance. Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor and F-35, Sukhoi T-50 PAK FA / Sukhoi Su-57, and J-20/J-31 are some of the examples.

 

Future Trends

 

For a long time, military aviation doctrines and requirements drove technology. Today, technologies offer enhanced capabilities that are driving operational employment and tactics. Technological advancements, automation, and design innovation are poised to define the future of fighter aircraft. Discussing fighter aircraft’s future trends involves strategic changes shaping the next generation of aerial combat. These trends highlight the direction in which future fighter aircraft are heading, focusing on enhanced capabilities to maintain air superiority in evolving combat environments.

 

    • Stealth and Low Observable Technologies: Future fighters will continue to push the boundaries of stealth technology to evade radar detection. This includes advanced materials, shape designs, and coatings that reduce the aircraft’s visibility to enemy sensors. Reducing infrared and electronic signatures will also be crucial to avoid detection by modern and future sensors.

 

    • Artificial Intelligence and Automation: Enhanced cockpit interfaces and augmented reality systems would improve the pilot’s situational awareness. AI will assist in decision-making, target detection/recognition, and autonomous flight operations, reducing pilot workload and enhancing mission efficiency. Swarm technology and autonomous drones will likely operate alongside manned fighters, providing reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and additional firepower.

 

    • Network-Centric Warfare: Future fighters will be part of a highly integrated network, sharing data with other aircraft, ground forces, and naval units in real time. Enhanced secure communication systems will be crucial to prevent jamming and ensure reliable information exchange for coordinated operations. Real-time battlefield awareness would be provided through advanced communication networks and sensor integration.

 

    • Hypersonic Capabilities: The development of aircraft capable of travelling at hypersonic speeds (Mach 5 and above) will reduce adversaries’ reaction time. Enhanced propulsion systems would help achieve and sustain these speeds.

 

    • Advanced Weapon Systems: Directed energy weapons (lasers and microwave weapons) would be integrated for offensive and defensive purposes. Long-range, high-precision missiles and advanced electronic warfare systems would be integrated to provide precise, high-speed targeting capability. Future weaponry would utilise scramjets to produce faster missiles.

 

    • Advanced Propulsion Systems: The focus would be on fuel-efficient engines and alternative propulsion methods like hybrid-electric systems. Adaptive engines could alter their performance characteristics on the fly to optimise speed, range, and fuel efficiency. Adaptive engine technology allows longer ranges and higher performance, where the bypass and compression airflow ratio can vary to improve efficiency. A variable-cycle engine could configure itself to act like a turbojet at supersonic speeds while performing like a high-bypass turbofan for efficient cruising at slower speeds. Exploration of alternative, sustainable, and efficient fuel would continue to enhance operational performance and reduce logistical dependencies.

 

    • Modular and Flexible Design: Aircraft designs will be more modular, allowing for quick upgrades and customisation-based adaptability to various mission requirements. Design flexibility would allow the integration of newer technologies without complete aircraft redesigns.

 

    • Omni-role Capabilities: The emphasis will be on Omni-role functionality, which enables a single aircraft to perform various roles (air-to-air, air-to-ground, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare missions) simultaneously.

 

    • Enhanced Situational Awareness: Future fighters will feature enhanced sensor suites, including radar, electro-optical, infrared, and electronic warfare sensors. Improved helmet-mounted displays (HMD) will provide pilots with critical data directly in their line of sight.

 

    • Improved Survivability and Resilience: The aircraft would have enhanced countermeasures against electronic warfare, cyber threats, and physical attacks. More resilient airframes and systems would be developed to withstand extreme combat conditions.

 

Sixth Generation Fighter Aircraft. With the fifth generation coming into service, attention is already turning to a replacement sixth generation. Sixth-generation aircraft are still in the development phase; however, based on current trends in air technology, they are likely to have several key features that will shape air strategy in the future. The fifth-generation abilities for battlefield survivability, air superiority and ground support will need to be enhanced and adapted to the future threat environment. Development time and cost will likely be significant factors in laying practical roadmaps for sixth-generation aircraft. These aircraft could feature hypersonic speed, dual-mode engines, and adaptive shapes. They are likely to have increased automation with advanced AI and machine learning algorithms that will enable autonomous decision-making and allow them to adapt to changing situations quickly. Integrated sensor systems in these aircraft will provide comprehensive situational awareness and the ability to engage targets with great precision. They would also have enhanced stealth capabilities. At this stage, it is unclear to what extent drones and other remote unmanned technologies can participate, either as satellite aircraft under a sixth-generation command fighter or even replacing the pilot in an autonomous or semi-autonomous command aircraft. Sixth-generation aircraft are expected to impact air strategy significantly, changing the landscape of aerial combat. Some of the ongoing, notable future fighter programs are:-

 

 

    • NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance): A U.S. Air Force program aiming to develop a family of systems, including a sixth-generation fighter, to succeed the F-22 Raptor. USAF is looking at not just an aircraft but a system of systems, including communications, space capabilities, stand-off, and stand-in options, including platforms with incredible speed, range, stealth and self-healing structures. F/A-XX: A U.S. Navy program for a next-generation fighter to replace the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.

 

    • FCAS FCAS (Future Combat Air System): A collaborative and ambitious effort by France, Germany, and Spain to develop a sixth-generation fighter and an associated system of systems. A two-year Joint Concept Study (JCS) had been awarded to Dassault Aviation and Airbus for the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme to look into the System of Systems approach with associated next-generation services. The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) is one of the century’s most ambitious European defence programmes to replace the Eurofighter, Tornado and Rafale.

 

    • Tempest: Tempest is a UK-led program with Italy and Sweden to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet. It is being developed by a consortium of the UK Ministry of Defence, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Leonardo and The first flight is expected in the 2030s, to enter service in 2035, replacing the Eurofighter Typhoon. The Tempest will be a sixth-generation fighter incorporating several new technologies, including AI deep learning and directed Energy Weapons, an adaptive cycle engine and a virtual cockpit. It could be optionally manned and have swarming technology to control drones.

 

    • Sukhoi Su-57: In Russia, the FGFA Sukhoi Su-57 is just being inducted, and work is being done on its sixth-generation version with continuous upgrades and enhancements. The Mikoyan MiG-41 is reportedly a sixth-generation jet fighter-interceptor aircraft currently being developed for the Russian Air Force.

 

    • Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang FC-31: China’s fifth-generation fighters with potential future developments toward sixth-generation capabilities. China is still evolving its J-20 and J-31, overcoming the limitations on radar, avionics and engine technologies. Chinese sixth-generation aircraft (J-XX) is called Huolong (Fire Dragon).

 

    • Japan’s Mitsubishi F-3 sixth-generation fighter is being tested on the Mitsubishi X-2 Shinshin test bed. It would be based on the concept of informed and intelligent aircraft.

 

What Next after Sixth Generation:  Predicting the specific features of future aerial platforms involves speculation, but several potential features could be considered for future aircraft and drones based on current trends and technological advancements. Actual features of future aerial platforms will depend on various factors, including technological breakthroughs, military and strategic priorities, and budget considerations. Continuous advancements in materials science, artificial intelligence, and aerospace engineering will likely play a crucial role in shaping the capabilities of future aerial platforms.

 

    • They could be made of Nano-tech with adaptive and morphing structures, allowing for dynamic changes in shape and aerodynamics. Depending on the attempted manoeuvre, they could morph into many aerodynamic forms, improving overall efficiency and manoeuvrability. For increased durability and performance, they could be made using lightweight and robust materials, such as advanced composites and nano-materials.

 

    • They could fly up to and in outer space (upper Stratosphere or lower Mesosphere). They would be highly responsive and have hypersonic speed capability. Alternative fuels, improved propulsion systems, or even the integration of renewable energy sources would make them highly energy efficient. They may use high energy-to-weight ratio fuels (e.g. liquid methane).

 

    • They would have Advanced Sensor Technologies, such as improved imaging systems, sensors for environmental monitoring, and enhanced data fusion capabilities for better situational awareness. They could have a VR cockpit concept, presenting a 360-degree spherical view with no blind spots. They could have advanced voice-activated controls, be remotely piloted, AI-controlled, or highly autonomous with improved decision-making capabilities. They would be capable of operating individually or collaboratively as a swarm.

 

    • They would be armed with Directed Energy Weapons. They would be fully stealthy, with low radar, visual, noise, and electromagnetic signatures. For self-protection, they could have energy shields or cloaking devices.

 

 Indian Perspective

 

The IAF operates fourth-generation fighters (upgraded Mirage 2000, MiG-29, and Su 30 MKI) and four-and-a-half-generation Rafale aircraft. India’s collaborative attempt with Russia to develop a Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) ran into severe roadblocks and was abandoned. The development of indigenous fighter aircraft was initially slow but has picked up pace. LCA Tejas has been inducted, and the IAF is awaiting the induction of LCA MkII.

 

The Indian fifth-generation fighter aircraft project, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is in the development stage. AMCA will be a single-seat, twin-engine, stealth, super-manoeuvrable all-weather multirole fighter aircraft. It will be AI-enabled, with multi-sensor data fusion and an advanced cockpit providing high situational awareness. It is intended to be super-manoeuvrable with quadruple digital FBW, voice command, and the HOTAS concept, capable of autonomous mission execution. Its first flight is planned for 2024-25, with the induction of MKI in 2031 and MKII in 2035. These timelines seem optimistic, and the project needs impetus to overcome challenges related to developing indigenous engines, electronics and weapon systems.

 

India’s DPSU Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has also announced the development of a futuristic Combat Air Team (Loyal Wingman Concept). It is a composite amalgamation of a manned fighter aircraft acting as a “mother ship” supported by several swarming UAVs and UCAVs. The objective is to make artificially intelligent (AI) high-altitude surveillance drones, air launch platforms, and loitering munitions with full situational awareness to target enemy targets from longer distances without human intervention.

 

India faces a security challenge from two collusive, nuclear-powered, inimical neighbours. While self-reliance is the way forward, the minimum level of deterrence must always be maintained. The success of the leapfrog method of development and investment in future technology is the need of the hour.

 

Suggestions and value additions are most welcome.

 

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

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