SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a recent meeting with prospective suppliers for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, officials from the Indian Air Force (IAF) indicated that the service aims to acquire more than 200 units of the indigenous stealth fighter over the long term. Organized by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), the meeting was attended by potential suppliers from the private sector and representatives of the IAF, who highlighted the program’s broad potential, both for domestic deployment and possible exports.
The ADA issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) to private sector aerospace component suppliers, seeking companies to join the supply chain for the AMCA program. The EOI covers various elements of the aircraft’s manufacturing, including airframe and structural components, underscoring the AMCA’s need for a robust industrial ecosystem. The program aims to tap into India’s private sector to build advanced manufacturing capabilities, fostering an efficient and high-quality production environment for the AMCA.
According to IAF officials, the service is committed to procuring 40 AMCA MkI jets as an initial order, followed by 120 AMCA MkII jets as the program advances. This long-term commitment aims to reassure the Indian aerospace industry of a sustained order flow, enhancing the return on investment for companies joining the AMCA project. Additionally, IAF officials assured potential suppliers that their involvement would yield substantial returns due to the program’s longevity and volume.
The AMCA MkI variant is expected to be powered by the GE F414 engine, while the more advanced MkII will use a powerful 110kN-class engine, which is currently under development as part of a collaboration with international engine manufacturers. The phased engine upgrade underscores the program’s adaptability, with MkI acting as a bridge to the fully indigenous MkII, expected to feature more powerful engines and advanced avionics.
In line with India’s push to increase defence exports, IAF officials discussed the possibility of exporting the AMCA to friendly nations once it reaches full-rate production. This export potential is a significant boost for companies investing in the AMCA supply chain, as it could lead to expanded production volumes well beyond India’s initial requirements.
The ADA outlined an ambitious timeline for the AMCA program, aiming for a prototype rollout by the end of 2028, followed by initial production within five years. If achieved, full-scale production of the AMCA MkI could begin by the early 2030s, with the upgraded MkII following shortly thereafter. This timeline is crucial, as it aligns with the IAF’s modernization strategy and the need to replace older platforms with advanced, stealth-capable aircraft.
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