India Pursues Sixth-Gen Fighter Collaborations, Proceeds with Ghatak UCAV Induction

India is enhancing its future air combat capabilities by seeking partnerships for the development of sixth-generation fighter jets and moving forward with the induction of 67 Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), according to Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

AMCA Programme Gains Momentum

The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) initiative is making progress with plans to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) shortly. The programme is expected to involve private sector participation, with a strong emphasis on developing indigenous fifth-generation fighters.

Push for Sixth-Generation Fighters

India is also considering collaboration with international partners to develop sixth-generation fighter aircraft. This collaboration would potentially involve sharing costs, exchanging advanced technologies, and participating in existing international multi-nation programmes.

Induction of Ghatak UCAVs

Samir V Kamat has highlighted that the Ghatak UCAV will feature capabilities similar to stealth fighters and will be part of a platform weighing approximately 13 tons. The UCAVs are set to enhance India's autonomous strike capabilities, and a proposal has been approved to induct around 67 of these systems, which will significantly boost the country’s unmanned combat fleet.

Bridging Capability Gaps

The government is working to address key capability gaps within the Indian Air Force, focusing on increasing fighter aircraft strength, acquiring more aerial refuellers, and enhancing Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS). Contracts for these enhancements are expected to be finalized within the next year.

Diversifying Defence Production

The Defence Secretary underscored the importance of establishing multiple production lines to decrease reliance on a single manufacturer. This strategy aims to foster enhanced competition and ensure a more resilient supply chain.

Towards Future-Ready Air Power

These initiatives are part of India's broader push towards achieving self-reliance in defense (Aatmanirbhar Bharat), advancing combat aviation technologies, and developing an integrated manned-unmanned warfare capability.