India Begins AMCA Stealth Fighter Jet Development – Key Details

India’s Leap into 5th-Gen Fighter Jet Development
In a major step toward self-reliance in defense technology, India has officially started the process to develop the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet. This project aims to enhance the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) combat capabilities with advanced stealth features, supercruise ability, and next-gen avionics.

Key Highlights of the AMCA Project
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), under the Ministry of Defence, has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from Indian aerospace companies to develop AMCA prototypes.
The plan includes building five prototypes before moving into full-scale production.
The AMCA will be a medium-weight, deep-penetration fighter with advanced stealth technology, making it harder to detect on enemy radars.
Once operational, the AMCA and Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) will form the backbone of India’s fighter fleet.

Selection Criteria for Indian Companies
The ADA is looking for Indian-owned companies with expertise in aerospace and defense to take on this high-tech project. Key requirements include:
Proven experience in aerospace manufacturing and defense systems.
Ability to absorb AMCA’s design and set up a production facility for mass manufacturing.
Companies can apply individually, as a joint venture, or as a consortium.
The selected firm must complete prototyping, flight tests, and certification within eight years of the contract award.

Why the AMCA is a Game-Changer for India
Reduces dependency on foreign fighter jets like the Rafale and Sukhoi.
Strengthens India’s defense manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative.
Enhances stealth and combat capabilities with next-gen radar evasion and weapon systems.
Positions India among a select few nations with fifth-gen fighter jet technology.


Sample Questions & Answers on AMCA
1. What is the AMCA fighter jet?
Answer: The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is India’s indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet designed for deep-penetration missions with advanced radar-evading capabilities.
2. Which organization is leading the AMCA project?
Answer: The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), under the Ministry of Defence, is overseeing the AMCA’s development.
3. How many AMCA prototypes will be built?
Answer: The government plans to develop five prototypes before full-scale production begins.
4. What makes the AMCA a fifth-generation fighter?
Answer: It features stealth technology, supercruise ability, advanced avionics, and network-centric warfare capabilities.
5. What is the expected timeline for AMCA’s development?
Answer: The entire process—from prototyping to certification—must be completed within eight years of the contract signing.