The Indian Air Force (IAF) is unimpressed by China's Chengdu J-20 "stealth" fighter jet, echoing a growing opinion the J-20 isn't a true stealth jet in the same mold as the Northrop Grumman F-35 Lightning II.

It also points out its new Dassault Rafale multi-role fighters have stealth capabilities that remain secret, but do exist in this French-made jet. India has ordered 36 Rafales from the plane's maker, Dassault Aviation.

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IAF realizes full well the importance of acquiring a fighter aircraft with stealth features and that's why Rafale, which has "special stealth features," was acquired from France, said Air Marshal SB Deo, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command (WAC).

WAC is the largest and most important Air Command of the IAF. It consists of 16 Air Force Bases, and is responsible for the aerial defense of north India. It controls 21 squadrons, of which 13 are jet fighter squadrons.

The Air Marshal believes the J-20, which had its first public reveal at the Zhuhai Air Show last Nov. 1, is no cause for concern since Rafale also has stealth features.

"The radial cross section of the aircraft (Rafale) is significantly smaller for an aircraft of that size," he said.

"There are many other features, too, which I would not like to disclose at this stage."

Air Marshal Deo pointed out the J-20 has stealth features only at the front and not in the rear. This means the J-20 is not a true stealth fighter in the same class as the F-35.

"It is important to maintain stealth while using your radar equipment, while opening your bomb bay doors to fire and ensuring how a weapon can quickly come out of the rails and go out. I do not know how far this aircraft is stealth," he said.

He also said it will be some time before the J-20 is operationally fielded but the IAF is prepared for its arrival.

TagsIndian Air Force, Chengdu J-20, Northrop Grumman F-35 Lightning II, Dassault Rafale multi-role fighter, Air Marshal SB Deo, Western Air Command