In a significant development for India’s indigenous fighter aircraft program, the 4.5-generation-plus LCA Mark 2 fighter jets are set to begin flying by March 2026, with mass production slated to start by 2029. Additionally, mass production of the Indian fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is expected to commence by 2035, according to defense officials.
These timelines were discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat and Indian Air Force Deputy Chief Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit. The meeting, held at DRDO Bhawan, focused on the LCA Mark 2 development program led by the Aeronautical Development Agency. Officials from various DRDO labs, cluster director generals involved in system and subsystem development, and those overseeing the prototype’s flight testing participated in the review.
During the meeting, it was noted that the LCA Mark 2 program would be delayed by about a year, with the prototype now expected in early 2025, instead of the previously anticipated date. The delay is attributed to a lag in the release of approved funds, tied to the engine deal for the next indigenous fighter.
All LCA aircraft will be powered by American GE engines. The LCA Mark 1 and Mark 1A models will use the GE-404 engine, while the LCA Mark 2 will be equipped with the GE-414 engine, which will be manufactured in India with indigenous content.
The Indian government plans to replace the IAF’s mainstay fleets, including the Mirage 2000, Jaguar, and MiG-29, with the LCA Mark 2. Over 250 of these planes are expected to be inducted over the next 10-15 years. Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force has already ordered 180 LCA Mark 1A aircraft, with production likely to be completed by 2032.
The Tejas Mark 2 will feature significantly increased indigenization, with the Uttam radar serving as its main sensor. An indigenous AESA radar is also being developed for the Russian-origin Su-30 MKI fighters as part of an upgrade program. The design and development of the AMCA were recently cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security.
The Mark 2 will also be equipped with indigenous weapons, such as the Astra air-to-air missile and Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons. The DRDO and IAF are also exploring export opportunities for the Mark 2, which offers advanced capabilities at a competitive price.
(With ANI Inputs)
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