Defence Ministry Greenlights Advanced Combat Aircraft Project with Industry Partnership
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the execution model for India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, emphasizing collaboration with private industry. This strategic move aims to bolster indigenous defence manufacturing. The first AMCA prototype is anticipated by 2028-29, with production slated for 2032-33 and induction targeted for 2034, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in advanced aerial warfare technology.
Unpacked:
The AMCA is classified as a fifth-generation fighter due to features like advanced stealth, supercruise capability, sensor fusion, internal weapons bays, advanced avionics, and AI-powered systems, similar to elite fighters operated by the US, Russia, and China.
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), under the Ministry of Defence, leads the AMCA project, with significant collaboration from private industry partners for design, development, and manufacturing to boost indigenous capabilities.
The AMCA will provide India with modern air superiority, ground-attack, and electronic warfare capabilities, potentially replacing older fighters like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and placing India among a select group of nations with indigenous fifth-generation aircraft.
The first AMCA prototype is expected by 2028-29, with production starting in 2032-33 and induction into the Indian Air Force targeted for 2034. Full-scale mass production is planned by 2035.