India Finalizes Design of AMCA Stealth Fighter Jet, Prototype Expected by 2027
India's Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has made significant progress with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) by finalizing its paper design. This development marks a crucial advancement in India's efforts to produce a fifth-generation stealth fighter domestically. The first prototype is expected to be unveiled by 2027, which would elevate India to the ranks of nations with advanced combat aviation capabilities.
The AMCA project has developed a 25-tonne fighter aircraft with twin engines, capable of achieving speeds up to Mach 1.8, with some estimates suggesting a potential top speed of Mach 2.15. It boasts an operational range of 3,240 km, a combat range of 1,620 km, and a service ceiling of 20,000 meters, making it well-suited for air superiority and strike missions.
Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security in 2024, the program is backed by a ₹15,000 crore ($1.8 billion) budget. It aims to produce five prototypes, with three dedicated to flight trials and the other two for weapon system integration and performance validation.
The AMCA features dual-mode operational capabilities, enabling it to operate in stealth mode with internal weapon bays for covert missions and a non-stealth mode with external hard points capable of carrying up to 5 tonnes of ordnance. This flexibility allows the aircraft to adapt to various combat situations.
A notable innovation in the AMCA is its AI-assisted electronic co-pilot, designed to assist the human pilot by assessing threats, optimizing routes, and aiding decision-making during intense missions. This technology effectively replicates the functions of a weapons systems officer in a single-seat setup.
The aircraft will incorporate a suite of indigenous weapons and sensors, such as the Astra BVR air-to-air missiles, Rudram anti-radiation missiles, and BrahMos-NG supersonic cruise missiles. Its advanced AESA radar, IRST systems, and electronic warfare suites ensure comprehensive 360-degree situational awareness.
The initial variant, AMCA MK-1, will be powered by the US-made General Electric F414-GE-INS6 engines. The subsequent AMCA MK-2 will feature a domestically developed 110 kN engine, produced by DRDO in collaboration with international entities like SAFRAN, representing a step toward India's goal of achieving self-reliance in essential defense technologies.
Designed with future upgrades in mind, the AMCA is prepared to integrate sixth-generation technologies, including directed-energy weapons, loyal wingman drones, and network-centric warfare systems.
The AMCA initiative highlights India's advancing technological prowess and strategic foresight, positioning the country as a prominent player in the global aerospace and defense sectors.
