India’s ambitious 5.5 generation fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), could be a reality sooner than expected. According to official sources, the first prototype is set to be ready by 2028-29, marking a major step toward boosting India’s indigenous aerospace capabilities. The government is now working on a plan to bring in private companies to ensure the project stays on track for timely execution.
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Fast-Tracking Development
The Defence Ministry has finalized the AMCA’s design, and the project is moving ahead with clear milestones. Production is expected to begin by 2032-33, with full induction into the Indian Air Force (IAF) targeted for 2034. However, the rapid pace of development suggests that the aircraft could take to the skies as early as 2029 for testing.
To streamline the process, a high-level committee led by the Defence Secretary has been set up. This committee, which includes representatives from the IAF and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is evaluating models for private sector participation to speed up production. The Defence Ministry has already issued an Expression of Interest (EoI), receiving three responses from the industry. A final decision on private sector involvement is expected within six months.
Why AMCA Matters
The AMCA is India’s first indigenously designed fifth-generation (5.5 generation) fighter jet, putting the country in an elite group of nations developing such advanced aircraft. The jet is being built at a time when global powers like China and the U.S. are expanding their own fifth-generation programs. Notably, China has already deployed its J-20 fighter near the Indian border, making AMCA’s development even more critical for India’s defence.
Designed as a 25-tonne twin-engine stealth fighter, the AMCA will feature:
- Internal weapons bay for stealth capabilities
- Diverterless supersonic intake for reduced radar signature
- AI-powered avionics for advanced situational awareness
- Internal fuel capacity of 6,500 kg for long-range operations
The Road Ahead
The AMCA will be developed in two phases:
- MK1 variant will use the General Electric F414 engine
- MK2 variant will feature a more powerful engine, planned to be co-developed with France’s Saran
LCA Mk2 Could Be Out In 2027
Meanwhile, India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Mk2 project is also progressing. The prototype, powered by the GE F414 engine, is expected by 2027. HAL is close to finalizing a deal to manufacture the F414 engine in India, further strengthening domestic aerospace manufacturing.
