SOURCE: AFI
Last year, Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, emphasized the need for foreign collaboration in developing niche technologies for India’s ambitious 5th Generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) fighter program. In an interview with “BW Business World,” Chaudhari highlighted the critical importance of this collaboration to avoid delays and ensure the program stays on schedule.
The AMCA program, a key project for India’s defense modernization efforts, aims to develop an indigenous 5th Generation stealth fighter jet to bolster the Indian Air Force’s capabilities. However, Chaudhari expressed concerns about potential delays in developing certain indigenous components, which could lead to more significant delays in the overall program timeline.
“Delays in a few of the indigenous components could trigger a bigger delay in the program,” Chaudhari noted. He stressed the importance of having a backup development strategy to mitigate these risks and ensure the program remains on track. His comments indicate a pragmatic approach to managing the complexities of developing a sophisticated 5th Generation fighter jet, which involves integrating a wide array of advanced technologies.
Chaudhari’s remarks also indirectly pointed to the IAF’s concerns regarding the capabilities of the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the two primary agencies responsible for the AMCA program’s design and development. The IAF Chief’s call for foreign collaboration suggests a lack of complete confidence in ADA and HAL’s ability to meet the stringent requirements and timelines associated with a 5th Generation fighter jet program.
While ADA has been the nodal design agency for India’s previous indigenous fighter program, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, the challenges of developing a 5th Generation fighter are significantly more complex. These challenges include developing advanced stealth features, next-generation avionics, electronic warfare systems, and integrating indigenous engines and weaponry. HAL, on the other hand, has been tasked with manufacturing the aircraft, adding another layer of complexity to the program’s execution.
Boeing and Safran, two leading global aerospace companies, have previously offered to collaborate on the AMCA program. Their offers were contingent upon India selecting their fighter jets under its tender for 114 jets in the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) competition. Boeing, with its experience in developing the F-15EX and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, and Safran, a leader in aircraft propulsion and avionics systems, could provide critical expertise in areas where India currently lacks indigenous capabilities.
Their involvement could significantly enhance the AMCA program’s chances of success by providing cutting-edge technology, manufacturing expertise, and program management skills. Moreover, such partnerships could accelerate the development of critical components, reduce risks associated with indigenous development, and ensure adherence to the program’s delivery schedule.
Despite the IAF Chief’s call for foreign collaboration, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has not announced any formal plans to involve international partners in the AMCA program. The MoD’s current stance appears to favor an entirely indigenous development approach, in line with the ‘Make in India’ initiative and the drive towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
However, Chaudhari’s comments underscore the need for a more flexible approach. In the fast-evolving world of military aviation, delays in one component or technology can cascade, leading to significant slippage in program timelines. An international collaboration could provide the necessary buffer against such risks, ensuring that the AMCA program progresses smoothly and within its intended time frame.