Latest news with #AMCA
Indian Express
5 hours ago
- Business
- Indian Express
India's AMCA fighter jet programme: Indigenous, ambitious and in urgent need of whole-of-nation approach
Written by Sanket Kulkarni The momentum in aerospace and defence manufacturing in India has been steadily picking up pace over the last five years. The private sector's ability to deliver on critical defence projects has been well tested with programmes in the domain of drones, military transport aircraft, and artillery guns. The collaboration between the government and the private sector reached its peak with the Aeronautical Development Agency recently releasing an Expression of Interest (EOI), inviting companies to participate in the development of a fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). With China unveiling the model of J-35A fifth-generation fighter aircraft at the 55th Edition of the Paris Air Show in 2025 and reports suggesting that work on its sixth-generation fighter aircraft is underway at full speed, there is immense pressure on India to ramp up its efforts in developing indigenous capabilities in the domain of fighter aircraft. Media reports mention that the first prototype of India's AMCA is expected to be tested by 2029, and the aircraft's complete development by 2034. Predictably, the next few weeks will throw up interesting surprises on how Indian companies work out different permutations and combinations to create credible consortia involving domestic and foreign players to support their respective bids for the AMCA programme. The Defence Acquisition Procedure of 2020 has enumerated several frameworks for the procurement of defence items, including partnerships with foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) possessing superior technology. This, combined with parallel initiatives, programmes, and policies to boost the overall innovation ecosystem, especially in the emerging technologies space, will complement AMCA's development. With the prospects of greater private sector involvement, the chances of adherence to timelines increase substantially. Having said this, there is a need for the concerned industry participants, end-users and the curating agency to work together in mission mode. More importantly, the successful development of the AMCA programme needs continued political mentorship and support. AMCA is not a routine programme, but a matter of national importance. This is particularly so, considering the range of national security challenges faced by India and disturbing developments in its extended neighbourhood. India, therefore, needs to become self-reliant in defence technology, especially those platforms that will win future wars and ensure our national security. While India's economic prominence and ascendancy on the global stage enable it to access advanced defence platforms, such access is always vulnerable to evolving global geopolitics. For instance, Russia's dependency on China in the last few years negates the former's ability to completely throw its weight behind India like before. The defence technology cooperation between China and Russia has significantly enhanced, encompassing air defence systems, drones, and critical minerals, etc. China is Russia's largest trading partner and has, over the years, consolidated its cooperation in the energy domain. Similarly, even though India's strategic partnership with the United States has deepened significantly, the latter has a habit of springing unpleasant surprises, especially when it comes to handling Pakistan. The European Union is preoccupied with its own economic and geopolitical woes, compelling it to keep its channels open with everyone, including China. In lieu of the above context, curating the journey of AMCA requires a whole-of-nation approach. Our experience in developing indigenous defence programmes like the light combat aircraft, UAVs, main battle tanks, and missile programmes has helped create a body of insights on what worked and what did not. The curating agency must revisit some of these projects to derive information on and guidance for AMCA's development journey. AMCA's success will depend on the ability of the curating agency and political leadership to absorb and harmonise diverse sets of challenges, and the capabilities of industry partners, end-users, innovation hubs, and line ministries to steer the programme towards intended outcomes in given timelines. From a political perspective, big-ticket defence projects have been embroiled in major political controversies, leading to inordinate delays and impacting national security. For this programme, it would serve well if political parties refrain from mudslinging against each other. As per reports, the induction of AMCA is expected to begin from 2035. During this period, it is imperative that political stakeholders demonstrate continuity in steering national efforts to ensure AMCA's success, irrespective of changes in ruling governments at the Centre and at the level of states. With respect to AMCA's development, India needs to showcase a spirit of political cooperation cutting across the ideological spectrum, similar to what we saw in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. The writer is a defence analyst based in Mumbai
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
Pakistan not getting Chinese J-35 stealth jets: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif says reports are only media chatter
Khawaja Asif, Pakistan's Defence Minister, refuted reports of a J-35A fighter jet deal with China. Earlier reports suggested Pakistan would acquire 40 jets at a discounted price. Defence sources claimed pilot training had begun. The deal was questioned due to Pakistan's economic situation. China remains a key defence supplier for Pakistan. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Reports had claimed a discounted deal Contradictory details from defence sources Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Pakistan's economic constraints raise questions China remains key defence supplier Past remarks on Indian jets also drew criticism Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has denied reports that the country has signed a deal with China to acquire J-35A fifth-generation stealth fighter jets. Speaking in a televised interview, Asif said there is no agreement between Pakistan and China for the purchase of the jets.'I think it is only in the media. It is good for sale, Chinese defence sales, you know,' said Khawaja Asif in response to a question about the reported delivery of the J-35A jets in media reports claimed that Pakistan was set to acquire 40 J-35A aircraft from China as early as August this year. The reports suggested the deal was being finalised at nearly half the standard export price, and that China was offering a major discount under what some described as a 'flash sale.'The J-35A is a twin-engine, multi-role, fifth-generation stealth fighter developed by China's Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. It is equipped with long-range PL-17 missiles and an AESA radar system, and has been seen as China's competitor to the U.S. the minister's denial, defence sources earlier said that the Pakistan Air Force had approved the J-35A acquisition and that pilot training had begun in China. The proposed agreement was also reported to include liberal payment terms, with the first deliveries expected by August reported deal came at a time when Pakistan is under economic pressure. The federal government recently raised its defence budget by 20% to PKR 2.5 trillion. At the same time, it cancelled 118 development projects worth PKR 1,000 billion and reduced the overall national budget by 7% to PKR 17.57 trillion ($62 billion).About 80% of Pakistan's military inventory comes from China. Systems such as the J-10C fighter jets and HQ-9 air defence systems were used by Pakistan during its most recent conflict with India. The addition of the J-35A was expected to further boost Pakistan's air strength, especially with India's AMCA fifth-generation fighter project expected only by now, official confirmation of any J-35A deal remains is not the first time Khawaja Asif has made headlines over unverified defence claims. During a televised interview with CNN, when asked for proof of Pakistan downing Indian fighter jets during Operation Sindoor, the Defence Minister said, 'It's all over social media , on Indian social media, not on our social media. The debris of these jets fell into Kashmir. And it's all over Indian media today and they have admitted.' The anchor responded by saying they were not there to discuss social media chatter. Asif did not provide concrete evidence or specifics, including the type of aircraft involved, and loosely referenced Chinese-made JF-17 and JF-10 jets.
Economic Times
4 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
India-US deal to produce F-414 jet engines to be sealed by March: HAL Chief Sunil
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel The Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) will seal a deal with US defence major GE Aerospace by March to jointly produce a jet engine to power the next generation of India's combat aircraft, the aviation behemoth's chief DK Sunil has mega plan to jointly produce the F-414 engines in India was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington DC in 2023, though the programme suffered from several slippages because of protracted negotiations on the sharing of advanced an exclusive interview with PTI Videos, HAL Chairman and Managing Director Sunil said crucial negotiations with GE Aerospace on the transfer of technologies for the engines were concluded and both sides are now focusing on the commercial aspects of the project."We are now discussing the ToT (transfer of technologies) principles. (We will have) 80 per cent transfer of technology. Those discussions are more or less over," he said. "Now we will be getting into the commercials. So, in this financial year, we should be able to conclude this deal," he forward movement in joint production of the premier engines, which are powering combat jets in several countries including the US, Sweden and Australia, is seen as very significant considering the long-held US policy of maintaining strict controls over domestic military said the GE engines will be used in the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mark 2 variant and the initial prototypes of fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)."We are having regular rounds of discussions with GE Aerospace," he F-414 project under the technology transfer framework is crucial for India's ambitious Tejas programme as well as the AMCA HAL is working on the Tejas Mark 2 variant which will be a much more potent platform featuring a more powerful engine, greater load carrying capability, superior electronic warfare system and an array of advanced IAF is procuring around 180 Tejas Mark 1A variants at a cost of around Rs 1.15 lakh crore. The single-engine Mk-1A will be a replacement for the IAF's MiG-21 also has been working on the ambitious AMCA project to develop the medium-weight deep penetration fighter jet with advanced stealth features to bolster its air power along with the Tejas light combat aircraft are planned to be the mainstays of the Indian Air also talked about HAL winning a mega contract to supply Prachand helicopters to the Indian March, the defence ministry firmed up the procurement of 156 light combat helicopter 'Prachand' from the HAL at a cost of Rs 62,700 crore to bolster the combat capability of the HAL top executive said delivery of Prachand will commence in Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand is India's first indigenously designed and developed combat helicopter having capability of operating at an altitude of over 4500 metres."It is the biggest contract in India's military history. We produced 15 limited series productions (variants of the chopper) and delivered them. It is a very big shot in the arm for 'aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in the defence sector," Sunil whole attack helicopters are going to be made by HAL within the country and that platform will feature an array of weapons including rockets and anti-tank guided missiles.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
India-US deal to produce F-414 jet engines to be sealed by March: HAL Chief Sunil
The Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) will seal a deal with US defence major GE Aerospace by March to jointly produce a jet engine to power the next generation of India's combat aircraft, the aviation behemoth's chief DK Sunil has said. The mega plan to jointly produce the F-414 engines in India was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington DC in 2023, though the programme suffered from several slippages because of protracted negotiations on the sharing of advanced technologies. In an exclusive interview with PTI Videos, HAL Chairman and Managing Director Sunil said crucial negotiations with GE Aerospace on the transfer of technologies for the engines were concluded and both sides are now focusing on the commercial aspects of the project. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Access all TV channels anywhere, anytime Techno Mag Learn More Undo "We are now discussing the ToT (transfer of technologies) principles. (We will have) 80 per cent transfer of technology. Those discussions are more or less over," he said. "Now we will be getting into the commercials. So, in this financial year, we should be able to conclude this deal," he said. The forward movement in joint production of the premier engines, which are powering combat jets in several countries including the US, Sweden and Australia, is seen as very significant considering the long-held US policy of maintaining strict controls over domestic military technologies. Live Events Sunil said the GE engines will be used in the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mark 2 variant and the initial prototypes of fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). "We are having regular rounds of discussions with GE Aerospace," he said. The F-414 project under the technology transfer framework is crucial for India's ambitious Tejas programme as well as the AMCA project. The HAL is working on the Tejas Mark 2 variant which will be a much more potent platform featuring a more powerful engine, greater load carrying capability, superior electronic warfare system and an array of advanced avionics. The IAF is procuring around 180 Tejas Mark 1A variants at a cost of around Rs 1.15 lakh crore. The single-engine Mk-1A will be a replacement for the IAF's MiG-21 fighters. India also has been working on the ambitious AMCA project to develop the medium-weight deep penetration fighter jet with advanced stealth features to bolster its air power capability. AMCA along with the Tejas light combat aircraft are planned to be the mainstays of the Indian Air Force. Sunil also talked about HAL winning a mega contract to supply Prachand helicopters to the Indian military. In March, the defence ministry firmed up the procurement of 156 light combat helicopter 'Prachand' from the HAL at a cost of Rs 62,700 crore to bolster the combat capability of the military. The HAL top executive said delivery of Prachand will commence in 2028. Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand is India's first indigenously designed and developed combat helicopter having capability of operating at an altitude of over 4500 metres. "It is the biggest contract in India's military history. We produced 15 limited series productions (variants of the chopper) and delivered them. It is a very big shot in the arm for 'aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in the defence sector," Sunil said. The whole attack helicopters are going to be made by HAL within the country and that platform will feature an array of weapons including rockets and anti-tank guided missiles.
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Business Standard
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
India-US deal to produce F-414 jet engines likely by March: HAL Chief Sunil
The Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) will seal a deal with US defence major GE Aerospace by March to jointly produce a jet engine to power the next generation of India's combat aircraft, the aviation behemoth's chief DK Sunil has said. The mega plan to jointly produce the F-414 engines in India was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington DC in 2023, though the programme suffered from several slippages because of protracted negotiations on the sharing of advanced technologies. In an exclusive interview with PTI Videos, HAL Chairman and Managing Director Sunil said crucial negotiations with GE Aerospace on the transfer of technologies for the engines were concluded and both sides are now focusing on the commercial aspects of the project. "We are now discussing the ToT (transfer of technologies) principles. (We will have) 80 per cent transfer of technology. Those discussions are more or less over," he said. "Now we will be getting into the commercials. So, in this financial year, we should be able to conclude this deal," he said. The forward movement in joint production of the premier engines, which are powering combat jets in several countries including the US, Sweden and Australia, is seen as very significant considering the long-held US policy of maintaining strict controls over domestic military technologies. Sunil said the GE engines will be used in the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mark 2 variant and the initial prototypes of fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). "We are having regular rounds of discussions with GE Aerospace," he said. The F-414 project under the technology transfer framework is crucial for India's ambitious Tejas programme as well as the AMCA project. The HAL is working on the Tejas Mark 2 variant which will be a much more potent platform featuring a more powerful engine, greater load carrying capability, superior electronic warfare system and an array of advanced avionics. The IAF is procuring around 180 Tejas Mark 1A variants at a cost of around Rs 1.15 lakh crore. The single-engine Mk-1A will be a replacement for the IAF's MiG-21 fighters. India also has been working on the ambitious AMCA project to develop the medium-weight deep penetration fighter jet with advanced stealth features to bolster its air power capability. AMCA along with the Tejas light combat aircraft are planned to be the mainstays of the Indian Air Force. Sunil also talked about HAL winning a mega contract to supply Prachand helicopters to the Indian military. In March, the defence ministry firmed up the procurement of 156 light combat helicopter 'Prachand' from the HAL at a cost of Rs 62,700 crore to bolster the combat capability of the military. The HAL top executive said delivery of Prachand will commence in 2028. Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand is India's first indigenously designed and developed combat helicopter having capability of operating at an altitude of over 4500 metres. "It is the biggest contract in India's military history. We produced 15 limited series productions (variants of the chopper) and delivered them. It is a very big shot in the arm for 'aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in the defence sector," Sunil said. The whole attack helicopters are going to be made by HAL within the country and that platform will feature an array of weapons including rockets and anti-tank guided missiles.
