SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
While India might be behind the curve in joining the 5th generation fighter jet club with its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), it’s already peeking into the future. Former Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria and outgoing ADA chief Girish Deodhare offer exciting insights into the AMCA’s potential, hinting at technologies bordering on the 6th generation.
Deodhare’s description of AMCA as a “5.5 generation” aircraft is intriguing. It signifies the integration of cutting-edge features not yet found in operational 5th gen jets but poised to be core elements of future 6th gen fighters developed by global powers. This puts India on a fascinating path, not just catching up but potentially leapfrogging with next-generation advancements.
Bhadauria paints an optimistic picture for AMCA’s timeline. He expects the aircraft to achieve Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) in 10 years, paving the way for the production of the AMCA MkI. Meanwhile, development of the AMCA MkII with its upgraded 110kN thrust engine could be underway by then, further solidifying India’s position at the forefront of fighter jet technology.
This strategy of focusing on future-proof technologies allows India to potentially skip a generation while still acquiring formidable air power. The AMCA, with its blend of 5th and 6th-generation features, could provide a strategic edge on the battlefield of the future.
While challenges remain, the AMCA program’s ambition and progress are undeniable. India’s focus on indigenous development not only fosters self-reliance but also opens doors for technological breakthroughs. As AMCA takes shape, it promises to be more than just a fighter jet; it could be a symbol of India’s rising prowess in the global aerospace arena.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DCMA and Legal Notices.