SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Recent reports suggest a potential upgrade for India’s indigenously developed 5th generation fighter jet, the AMCA. According to a report by ANI, the AMCA’s Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) may be increased to 27 tons, exceeding the 25 tons previously confirmed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) a few years ago.
The ADA had earlier outlined the AMCA’s characteristics, including a 25-ton MTOW with a 12-ton empty weight. The aircraft’s internal fuel capacity was projected to be 6.5 tons, with an additional 1.5 tons allocated for internal weapons in stealth configuration. This configuration would maintain a 20-ton MTOW, with the remaining 5 tons available for additional external weaponry in non-stealth mode.
The potential 2-ton MTOW increase could be attributed to slight adjustments in various parameters. However, sources close to idrw.org suggest this may primarily benefit the internal fuel load and weapons bay size. While the AMCA is likely to retain its main ventral bay configuration without dedicated side bays due to fuselage geometry, the increased MTOW may translate to a larger internal weapons bay capable of carrying a heavier payload. These sources hint at a potential increase in the weapons bay load-out to over 2 tons, exceeding the previously specified 1.5 tons by 0.5 tons.
The AMCA MkI prototype is tentatively projected to be unveiled sometime around mid-2028. This development timeline aligns with the expectations for the aircraft’s flight test program and potential future induction into the Indian Air Force.
The potential MTOW increase signifies an ambitious step forward for the AMCA program. This modification could provide the aircraft with enhanced operational capabilities, allowing it to carry more fuel and a heavier internal weapons load for extended range and greater firepower. The final confirmation and details regarding the MTOW upgrade are likely to be revealed in the coming months as the AMCA program progresses.
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