Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has given the green light to the “execution model” for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, a significant step towards indigenously developing a fifth-generation deep penetration fighter jet for the Indian Air Force. This mega project aims to enhance India’s air power with an advanced stealth aircraft.
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) will spearhead the program, working in partnership with the industry. The approved “Execution Model” is designed to create a level playing field, offering competitive opportunities to both private and public sectors. Indian companies can bid independently, as joint ventures, or as consortia.
This initiative is seen as a crucial move to leverage India’s indigenous expertise and capacity to develop the AMCA prototype, marking a major milestone in achieving self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in the aerospace sector.
The Cabinet Committee on Security, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had previously granted in-principle approval for the fighter jet program last year. The initial development cost for the project is estimated to be around Rs 15,000 crore. The Indian Air Force has been actively advocating for the AMCA project to meet its long-term requirements. India’s successful development of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas has bolstered confidence in its ability to undertake the AMCA project.
