SOURCE: AFI
In a significant boost to India’s indigenous defense capabilities, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, a cornerstone of the country’s quest for self-reliance in advanced fighter jet technology, has taken a major step forward. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), recently announced that the execution model for the AMCA has been approved, opening the door for widespread participation from both public and private sectors.
In a groundbreaking move, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), private industry players, and joint ventures can now bid for the project, fostering a collaborative approach to developing India’s first fifth-generation stealth fighter. Dr. Kamat outlined an ambitious timeline, with the first prototype expected to fly by the end of 2029, development completion targeted for 2034, and production slated to commence in 2035.
The AMCA is a flagship initiative under India’s Make in India campaign, aimed at delivering a stealthy, multi-role fighter to meet the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) requirements for a next-generation combat aircraft. Designed by the DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), the AMCA is envisioned as a 25-tonne, twin-engine, fifth-generation fighter with advanced features, including stealth capabilities, an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, super-cruise capability, and compatibility with a wide range of precision-guided munitions. The aircraft is expected to fill a critical gap in the IAF’s inventory, complementing the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI, Rafale, and indigenous Tejas fighters while addressing emerging threats from advanced adversaries like China’s J-20 stealth fighter and Pakistan’s evolving air capabilities.
The AMCA project is divided into two phases: the Mk-1, powered by General Electric F414 engines (98 kN thrust each), and the Mk-2, which will feature a more powerful indigenous engine developed in collaboration with an international partner, potentially delivering 110–130 kN thrust. The aircraft will incorporate advanced technologies such as low-observable stealth design, internal weapons bays, thrust vectoring, and AI-driven avionics, positioning it as a rival to global fifth-generation platforms like the F-35 and Su-57. The IAF plans to induct 125 AMCA jets across seven squadrons, with the Indian Navy also exploring a naval variant for carrier operations.
Dr. Kamat’s announcement marks a paradigm shift in India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem. By allowing HAL, private companies, and joint ventures to bid for the AMCA project, the DRDO is fostering a competitive and inclusive approach to development. “The execution model of AMCA has been approved. HAL can bid, the private sector can bid, they can also bid as a joint venture,” Dr. Kamat stated, emphasizing the opportunity for private players like Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro, and Reliance Aerospace to contribute to fighter aircraft development. This move aligns with the government’s push to involve private industry in high-tech defense projects, reducing reliance on state-owned enterprises and accelerating innovation.
The open bidding model is expected to enhance efficiency, leverage private sector expertise, and drive cost-effectiveness. The AMCA’s development, estimated at ?15,000 crore (US$1.8 billion) for five prototypes, has already received approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in August 2024. The project’s funding includes contributions from the DRDO, IAF, and private partners, with HAL leading the prototype fabrication at its Nashik facility. Collaborations with international firms, such as GE for engines and potential partners like Safran or Rolls-Royce for the Mk-2 engine, will further bolster the project’s technological foundation.
Timeline and Milestones
Dr. Kamat outlined a clear roadmap for the AMCA’s development:
- End of 2029: The first AMCA prototype is expected to take flight, a critical milestone that will validate the aircraft’s design, stealth features, and avionics integration. The DRDO plans to build five prototypes for testing, with HAL’s Nashik facility already preparing for assembly.
- 2034: Full development of the AMCA, including both Mk-1 and Mk-2 variants, is targeted for completion. This phase will involve extensive flight testing, weapons integration, and certification to meet IAF and Navy requirements.
- 2035: Series production of the AMCA Mk-1 is slated to begin, with HAL and private partners scaling up manufacturing to deliver the initial batch of aircraft to the IAF. The production phase will prioritize indigenization, with over 70% of components expected to be locally sourced.
The timeline reflects a strategic balance between ambition and realism, building on lessons from the Tejas program, which faced delays but ultimately delivered a capable 4.5-generation fighter. The AMCA’s development leverages existing infrastructure, such as HAL’s production lines and the DRDO’s experience with the Tejas, while incorporating cutting-edge technologies like additive manufacturing and AI-based design optimization.
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