UPSC Prelims 2024 · Question 95 of 97

UPSC Prelims 2024 question on Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft

Consider the following aircraft:

1. Rafael
2. MiG-29
3. Tejas MK-1

How many of the above are considered fifth generation fighter aircraft?

  1. Only one
  2. Only two
  3. All three
  4. None
Show answer

Answer: D. None

Fifth generation fighters are the most technologically advanced jets ever built. They operate with the help of digital programs and fly-by-wire to counter threats. Sophisticated avionics, stealth technology and super manoeuvrability are key advantages.

Rafael (1) – NOT 5th GENERATION: Rafael is often dubbed 4+ or 4.5 generation fighter aircraft.

MiG-29 (2) – NOT 5th GENERATION: The Mikoyan MiG-29 (NATO reporting name: Fulcrum) is a 4th-generation jet fighter aircraft designed in the Soviet Union for an air superiority role.

Tejas MK-1 (3) – NOT 5th GENERATION: The Tejas Mark-1A is an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured modern 4-plus generation fighter aircraft with more than 65 per cent indigenous components.

None of the three are fifth generation fighter aircraft → Option (d).

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