Effective area denial techniques are key to India’s strategy to address the growing danger posed by Pakistan’s impending procurement of J-35s and China’s fleet of stealth fighters, especially the Chengdu J-20. In order to restrict opponents’ operating capabilities and establish control over disputed regions, area denial aims to stop them from exploiting certain areas for military operations.
With the deployment of more than 300 J-20 stealth fighters—which are built for air superiority and precision strikes—China has greatly increased the capabilities of its air force. India’s aerial supremacy is directly threatened by the presence of these cutting-edge aircraft at key locations close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC). India must reevaluate its defense plans since the J-20’s stealth technology and cutting-edge weapons could give China air superiority in any future battle.
At the same time, Pakistan plans to improve its air capability by acquiring 40 Chinese-made J-35 stealth aircraft. Given that new fifth-generation planes would replace older aircraft and enhance Pakistan’s multirole combat capabilities, this development is anticipated to change the military landscape in South Asia. A strong response from India is required in light of the developments in both of its neighbors.
India can build a multi-layered defense network by utilizing cutting-edge air defense systems like the S-400 Triumf. Even though there are questions over how well these systems work against stealth technology, when deployed, they can still offer substantial coverage against aerial threats, particularly when combined with other systems.
The benefits of Chinese stealth fighters can be lessened by deploying stealth drones, like India’s Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV). These drones can carry out observation and strike missions without exposing themselves to enemy radar, which makes hostile operations in contested regions more difficult, even though they are not as effective as human fighters.
For quick force mobilization and logistical support during wars, it is imperative to improve the infrastructure along the LAC. In order to ensure that soldiers can be deployed swiftly in response to threats, the Indian military has been working on improving connectivity and constructing critical highways in border areas.
India may gain access to cutting-edge technologies like the F-35 fighter jet by fortifying its ties with other countries, especially the US. In addition to strengthening India’s air power, these purchases would improve partner forces’ ability to cooperate in combined operations against shared threats.
India must concentrate on thwarting information warfare strategies that could accompany airborne threats in addition to using physical deterrents. This involves safeguarding vital communication systems and making sure that cyberattacks don’t compromise military operations.
India needs to implement a comprehensive area denial plan that includes sophisticated air defense systems, drone technology, infrastructure upgrades, strategic alliances, and strong information security measures in order to successfully resist China’s 300 stealth fighters and Pakistan’s possible J-35s. India can preserve its strategic edge and ward off possible attack from both neighbors by preventing enemies from operating freely in disputed areas.
