China's Air Force Deputy Commander Wang Wei announced the imminent operational deployment of their latest stealth bomber, the H-20. This move, a counter to US bombers, poses a heightened threat to India because of India's lack of stealth technology and anti-stealth weapons. India must swiftly develop countermeasures to ensure aerial defense capabilities against this covert menace, beginning with stealth-detecting radar systems.
Strategically, India must innovate to discover a breakthrough in radar technology capable of tracking such elusive aircraft. Subsequently, a surface-to-air missile system equipped with this technology can potentially neutralize the H-20. Its design is meant to evade radar detection with ease, rendering it a formidable challenge.
Exploring India’s Tactical Options Against H-20 Stealth Bomber
Source: aajtak
The H-20 stealth fighter jet incorporates technology that can reflect radar waves, making detection particularly challenging. India must develop new radar systems for tracking and interception, potentially integrating platforms like BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles into the Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (SAM).
The Invisible Bomber: A Threat to Indian Cities
If China deploys the H-20 from its territory, the jet could effortlessly penetrate Indian airspace targeting borders, airbases, naval stations, communication centers, or military bases. The psychological impact of an almost undetectable bomber on the armed forces would be substantial. India must pioneer a new generation of radar systems capable of tracking an aircraft of this calibre.
India Requires Advanced Radar and Missile Systems to Counter Stealth Attacks
In addition, India would need long-range air-to-air and surface-to-air missile systems capable of intercepting stealth bombers. Unveiled two years ago, the H-20 is a long-range bomber capable of striking targets up to 13,000 km away, potentially affecting any region in India.
Multiple Nations at Risk Apart from India
The H-20 bomber's combat range is estimated to be 5,000 km, indicating that it could strike anywhere in India. This craft not only threatens India but also American allies like Japan, Guam, Philippines, South Korea, who could be targeted stealthily and without warning.
