New Delhi, May 27, 2025 — In a landmark decision aimed at bolstering India's defence capabilities and technological self-reliance, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has officially approved the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme. The project is a significant step forward in India's goal of developing a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, capable of matching global standards.
The AMCA is being developed indigenously by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Once completed, it will place India among a select group of nations with the capability to design and produce advanced stealth combat aircraft.
The approved plan includes the prototype development phase, for which the government has sanctioned thousands of crores in funding. The first flight of the AMCA is expected within the next five years, with induction planned for the early 2030s. The fighter jet is designed to incorporate stealth technology, supercruise capability, advanced avionics, and artificial intelligence-powered systems, making it a formidable asset in modern aerial warfare.
The AMCA will be a twin-engine, multi-role aircraft with both air-to-air and air-to-ground strike capabilities. The programme envisions production in two phases: the initial Mark 1 variant with an existing engine platform and the advanced Mark 2 variant with an upgraded powerplant developed in cooperation with international partners.
Defence analysts hail the move as a bold and necessary step in India’s long-term defence preparedness. With the geopolitical landscape becoming increasingly complex, the development of an indigenous fifth-generation fighter is seen as crucial for maintaining regional superiority and reducing dependence on foreign defence imports.
The approval also aligns with the government's ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative, promoting indigenous manufacturing in critical sectors, including defence.
The AMCA will eventually replace aging aircraft in the Indian Air Force (IAF) fleet, including the Mirage 2000 and Jaguar, and will operate alongside the Rafale, Tejas, and Su-30MKI.
With this strategic decision, India is not only reinforcing its military strength but also marking its emergence as a key player in cutting-edge aerospace technology on the global stage.
