India’s 5th Generation Fighter ‘AMCA’ Gets Green Signal

In a significant move, the Cabinet Committee on Security has approved the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) fifth-generation stealth fighter jet project to be carried out by the DRDO.

With an estimated cost of approximately Rs 15,000 crore, the project will be executed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Aeronautical Development Agency. It aims to develop the stealth fighter jet and its associated technologies in collaboration with multiple private and public sector entities. The plan includes constructing approximately five prototypes within a timeframe of about five years.

According to sources, the project will involve the production of the prototype by industry players, including the public sector enterprise Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

The government has been actively pursuing the development of indigenous technologies within the defense sector.

The Defence Ministry foresees that the fifth-generation aircraft project will create numerous job opportunities and could result in substantial business contracts worth crores for Indian companies. This initiative is expected to generate employment opportunities on a large scale.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian Air Force has significantly bolstered its support for indigenous fighter aircraft projects. This is evidenced by the government’s procurement of over 200 Light Combat Aircraft and its approval for engines for the LCA Mark-2 project.

The induction of the AMCA into operational roles is projected to commence after 2030. The initial two squadrons are planned to be equipped with GE-414 engines, while discussions are ongoing for the co-development of more powerful engines for subsequent squadrons.

India is expected to introduce more than 200 of these advanced fifth-generation fighters, which will also contribute to the country’s capability to develop future generations of fighter jets domestically.