Context:

The Indian government has approved the programme execution model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation fighter jet being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

 About AMCA :

 The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is India’s first indigenously designed fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and to be manufactured competitively by Indian firms, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

AMCA is part of a broader push for self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in defence, alongside:

·         Tejas Mk1/Mk2

·         LCA Navy

·         Stealth drone programmes

·         Missile systems like MPATGM and VSHORAD

Key Features of the AMCA Project:

·        Aircraft Specifications: The AMCA will be a 25-tonne twin-engine aircraft with advanced stealth features, enabling it to avoid detection by enemy radars.

·        Internal Fuel Tank: The aircraft will have a bigger internal fuel tank, capable of carrying 6.5 tonnes of fuel while remaining concealed.

·        Internal Weapons Bay: The AMCA will have an internal weapons bay for a range of weapons, including indigenous ones, to be buried in its belly.

·        Engine: The AMCA Mk1 will fly on the existing 90kN class engine (GE 414 engines from the US), while the AMCA Mk2 will be powered by a stronger engine of 110kN to be developed indigenously by the DRDO.

Key fifth-gen features include:

·         Stealth design with internal weapons bay and low radar cross-section

·         AI-powered Electronic Pilot for real-time decision-making

·         Sensor fusion for unified situational awareness

·         Supercruise capability (supersonic flight without afterburners)

·         Netcentric warfare systems for real-time combat with UAV coordination

·         Integrated Vehicle Health Monitoring (IVHM) for predictive maintenance

AMCA comparison with F-35, Su-57, and J-20

Significance of the Project:

The AMCA project is expected to bring India into a select league of nations that possess fifth-generation fighter aircraft. The project will not only enhance India’s defence capabilities but also promote self-reliance in the aerospace sector. The development of the AMCA is estimated to cost around Rs 15,000 crore, and the first flight of the aircraft is expected within five years after the cabinet approval.

Conclusion:

The approval of the programme execution model for the AMCA project is a significant step towards the development of India’s fifth-generation fighter jet. The project is expected to promote self-reliance in the aerospace sector and enhance India’s defence capabilities.