SOURCE: AFI
The development of India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation stealth fighter, has reached a critical stage, with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chief announcing key timelines. Speaking on the program’s progress, the Chief revealed that the development trials for AMCA are expected to be completed by 2034, and the fighter jet should achieve induction into the Indian Air Force (IAF) by 2035.
This milestone will mark a transformative moment for India’s defense sector, as the AMCA will position the nation among an elite club of countries capable of designing and manufacturing advanced stealth aircraft indigenously. Currently, only a handful of nations, including the United States, Russia, and China, operate such cutting-edge technology.
“The development of AMCA is not just about creating a stealth aircraft but about achieving a significant leap in indigenously developed aerospace technologies. It will be a very proud moment when its development is completed, as India will enter an elite club of nations capable of producing such aircraft,” the DRDO Chief stated.
The AMCA’s design emphasizes stealth, agility, and cutting-edge sensor fusion, enabling it to perform in highly contested airspaces. The aircraft will be powered by advanced engines, feature internal weapon bays for reduced radar visibility, and include systems capable of network-centric warfare.
Despite the ambitious goals, the program has faced challenges, including the development of a suitable indigenous engine and delays due to the complexity of stealth technology. Collaborations with global partners for engine technology and continued investments in R&D have been critical to overcoming these hurdles.
When inducted, the AMCA will significantly bolster India’s deterrence capabilities and provide a vital edge in regional air superiority. It aligns with India’s vision of becoming a defense exporter and reducing dependency on foreign platforms, reflecting the “Make in India” initiative’s core principles.
As the AMCA project moves forward, its success will not only showcase India’s technological prowess but also inspire confidence in the country’s defense manufacturing ecosystem. With the DRDO, IAF, and private industry working in synergy, the program is poised to be a landmark achievement in India’s aerospace history.