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In a major step towards India’s self-reliance in defence, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday approved the execution plan for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme, this marks  a crucial milestone in India’s journey to develop its own fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, aimed at matching the cutting-edge aircraft used by the USA, China, and Russia.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) in a statement, confirmed that the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will spearhead the AMCA project through a collaborative industry partnership model. The ADA had earlier led the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas programme.

According to the MoD, the AMCA Execution Model is designed to provide equal participation opportunities for both private and public sector entities. These bidders can participate independently, as joint ventures, or as part of consortia provided they are registered Indian companies complying with national regulations.

ADA is set to issue an Expression of Interest (EoI) shortly for the development phase of the AMCA prototype, which is expected to include the construction of five test aircraft.

The AMCA is India’s ambitious indigenous project to develop a fifth-generation, twin-engine, all-weather stealth multirole combat aircraft.  It  is envisaged as an advanced technological fighter for air superiority, varied ground strikes, electronic warfare, and SEAD roles, succeeding the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighters in services.

Launched in 2010 and overseen by ADA, the aircraft aims to establish India among the elite few nations capable of designing and producing next-generation combat jets domestically — a major leap towards Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.

The defence ministry’s approved Execution Model invites Indian companies to submit competitive bids, either independently or as joint ventures or consortia. This approach guarantees equal opportunities for both public and private sector firms that comply with Indian laws and regulations. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) will coordinate and oversee the programme, with an Expression of Interest (EoI) for the development phase expected to be announced soon.

This industry partnership approach is designed to leverage and build indigenous expertise, manufacturing capacity, and technological capability to develop the AMCA prototype.

When will AMCA be ready?

The AMCA programme started with feasibility studies in 2010 and has since moved through design and prototype stages. Although the first flight was originally planned for 2017-18, delays have pushed the timeline.

According to an IANS report, prototype development is now in progress, and mass production is expected to begin by 2035. The project’s initial cost is estimated at around Rs 15,000 crore. The Indian Air Force considers the AMCA a key long-term asset to strengthen its air power.

Stealth technology: Built to avoid being detected by enemy radar.

Supercruise ability: Can fly faster than sound without using extra fuel-heavy boosters, saving fuel and going faster.

Multirole use: Can fight in the air, attack ground targets, handle electronic warfare, and take down enemy air defenses.

Two engines: Has two powerful engines for better performance and reliability.

Works in all weather: Can fly safely in any weather conditions.

Made in India: Most parts and systems will be made in India to support local industries.

Advanced tech: Equipped with modern radar, sensors, and electronic systems for better combat ability.

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