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Indian Express
2 days 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
India.com
6 days ago
- Business
- India.com
Masterstroke by Modi govt as India set to finalise BIG deal with US to build..., deal to be signed by...
Masterstroke by Modi govt as India set to finalise BIG deal with US to build..., deal to be signed by... Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is expected to finalise a big deal with US defence company GE Aerospace by March to jointly build fighter jet engines in India. These engines will be used in the next generation of Indian combat aircraft, said HAL Chairman and Managing Director DK Sunil, news agency PTI. The plan to co-produce GE's F-414 engines in India was first announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 2023 US visit. However, the project faced delays due to long negotiations over sharing advanced technology. In a recent interview with PTI Videos, DK Sunil shared that the main technical talks with GE are now done, especially around technology transfer (ToT). 'We have agreed on around 80 per cent transfer of technology,' he said. 'Those discussions are mostly over. Now, we are working on the commercial side of the deal.' He added that HAL hopes to finalise the agreement within this financial year, meaning the deal could be signed by March 2025. This project is a big step towards boosting India's defence manufacturing and making the country more self-reliant in building advanced military equipment. India, US move closer to engine deal as GE's F-414 set to power Tejas Mk2 and AMCA Progress on the joint production of GE's powerful F-414 jet engines already used in fighter jets by countries like the US, Sweden, and Australia is being seen as a major breakthrough, especially because the US has traditionally kept tight control over its military technology. HAL Chairman DK Sunil said that these engines will be installed in India's upcoming Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mark 2 and the first prototypes of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India's future fifth-generation fighter. 'We're having regular discussions with GE Aerospace,' Sunil said. HAL is currently developing the Tejas Mk2 as a more advanced version of the original Tejas, with a stronger engine, better electronic warfare systems, higher payload capacity, and modern avionics. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is also in the process of buying about 180 Tejas Mk-1A jets, at a cost of roughly Rs. 1.15 lakh crore. These single-engine fighters will gradually replace the ageing MiG-21 aircraft in IAF's fleet. India boosts air power with AMCA, Tejas jets and Prachand helicopter deal India is moving forward with its ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, aimed at developing a medium-weight fighter jet with stealth technology and deep-strike capabilities. The AMCA, along with the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, is expected to become a core part of the Indian Air Force's future fleet. HAL Chairman DK Sunil also spoke about a massive deal signed earlier this year for the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) 'Prachand'. In March 2025, the Defence Ministry approved the purchase of 156 Prachand helicopters from HAL, worth around Rs. 62,700 crore, to strengthen the combat strength of the Indian military. 'This is the biggest defence contract in India's history,' Sunil said. 'It's a huge boost to our mission of self-reliance in defence (Aatmanirbharta).' He added that the delivery of Prachand helicopters will begin in 2028. The Prachand is India's first indigenously designed and built combat helicopter. It can fly at high altitudes, over 4,500 metres, making it ideal for mountain warfare. HAL has already delivered 15 helicopters in a limited series, and full production will now continue. The helicopters will be completely made in India, and they will come equipped with powerful weapons including rockets and anti-tank guided missiles, giving the military more firepower and flexibility in the battlefield. (With PTI inputs)
India.com
23-06-2025
- Business
- India.com
Bad news for Pakistan, China as India not waiting for Russian SU-57 or US F-35 fighter jets, IAF making its own fighter planes more dangerous...
An image of British F-35B fighter jet used for Representational purpose Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme: In a significant achievement for India's defence sector, media reports have it that the Indian government is currently not in any formal talks to purchase advanced fighter aircraft like the Russian Su-57E or the American F-35. Instead, it is relying on indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Here are all the details you need to know about India's very own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is being called India's answer to fifth-generation air power. India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme In a big step towards 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' in Defence sector, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently approved the Execution Model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme. Readers should note that the AMCA clearance marks a critical step towards realising India's goal of joining an elite club of nations in designing and producing its own fleet of next-generation combat aircraft. The project will be helmed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), said the Defence Ministry in a press release. 'Both private and public sector entities would do bidding for the project, either independently or as a joint venture or as consortia. The entity/bidder should be an Indian company compliant with the laws and regulations of the country,' said the MoD statement. India's answer to fifth-generation air power The AMCA, widely seen as India's answer to fifth-generation air power, will give a major boost to achieving 'atmanirbharata' in the defence sector and will become a hallmark of India's growing defence capabilities. Being the fifth-generation stealth multirole fighter equipped with cutting-edge technology, it will be suited for all-weather operation. Designed with low radar cross-section and supercruise capability, the AMCA is seen as the successor to the frontline Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets. Some reports suggest that its mass production is likely to commence by 2035. (With inputs from agencies)
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
India buying US F‑35 or Russian Su‑57? Defence Secretary RK Singh reveals India's big plan for stealth fighter jet
India is not in any formal talks with the United States or Russia for acquiring fifth-generation stealth fighters like the F-35A or Su-57E, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh clarified on Friday. Instead, the country is focusing on developing its own fifth-generation aircraft—the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)—with an estimated timeline of eight years. No formal talks on F-35A or Su-57E: Defence Secy 'On F-35A and Sukhoi Su-57 E, whatever has been discussed has been informal. We don't have any formal consultation going on on these,' Singh told ANI in a podcast. He added that the focus is on indigenous capability: 'What I can talk about is our fifth-generation fighter, which will be the AMCA.' AMCA project opens to private firms For the first time, India has opened the AMCA programme to private aerospace companies. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) released a Request for Information (RFI) on Thursday, inviting bids from both public and private sector players. 'We've kept it open for the public and private sectors for the first time. The intent is that we need to have at least two aircraft manufacturers in the country, if not more,' Singh said. 'For the AMCA, the timeline is about eight years.' Execution model offers equal opportunity The AMCA programme will follow a competitive Execution Model approved by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh last month. It allows Indian companies to bid individually, through joint ventures or as consortiums. The model aims to create a level playing field across the defence aviation industry. Live Events You Might Also Like: Pakistan to get 40 more Chinese J-35 stealth jets soon: What are its capabilities and should India be concerned? HAL will benefit from competition, says Singh While HAL remains the only established military aircraft manufacturer in the country, Singh said competition would ultimately help the public-sector giant. 'There was a committee headed by me… that gave the report we need to open it up… HAL will also gain from healthy competition,' he said. He acknowledged HAL's existing limitations: 'The LCA production line has not stabilised, largely because of delays in engine supplies from the US… But they already have six years of orders with them.' Decline in reliance on Russian defence supplies Singh also said India's dependence on Russian equipment has reduced over the years. 'The percentage would have come down… maybe 40 per cent or so, from about 65–70 per cent earlier,' he said. You Might Also Like: Hypersonic missiles, next-gen BrahMos, new air defence: DRDO chief reveals long list of India's future-ready weapons Pakistan proposes Nobel Peace Prize for Donald Trump, says he played 'pivotal role during India-Pakistan crisis' However, global conflicts have disrupted defence imports from multiple partners, including Russia, Israel, France, and the United States. 'The S-400s… are delayed, but where we now have a firm schedule; they'll come next year by April,' Singh noted. He also said some Israeli contracts faced delays due to the country's ongoing conflict.
India Gazette
20-06-2025
- Business
- India Gazette
"AMCA open for private sector": Defence Secy Rajesh Kumar Singh emphasises need for private players in fighter jet production
New Delhi [India], June 20 (ANI): Emphasising the importance of private sector involvement in the defence aviation industry, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said on Friday that the production of India's fifth-generation fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), will be open to private companies. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh underscored the need for at least two aircraft manufacturers in India. He noted that the presence of private sector players would foster healthy competition, ultimately benefiting the country's public sector aerospace company, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). 'We've not reached a stage where I can talk about anything specific being done. What I can talk about is that our fifth-generation fighter, which will be the kept it open for the public and private sectors for the first time. The intent is that we need to have at least two aircraft manufacturers in the country, if not more. And once that gets some traction, we will hopefully move towards self-reliance in this critical area. For the AMCA, the timeline is about eight years,' Singh said. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had last month approved the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) Programme Execution Model. The Execution Model approach provides equal opportunities to both the private and public sectors on a competitive basis. They can bid either independently, as a joint venture, or as a consortium. The entity or bidder should be an Indian company that is compliant with the laws and regulations of the country. The Defence Secretary said HAL will gain from healthy competition. 'There was a committee headed by me, which essentially sort of gave the report that we need to open it up for the entire manufacturing ecosystem of the country. Whoever wants to come in should come in and... HAL will also gain from healthy competition of this type,' he said. Answering a query, he said HAL has the first-mover advantage and is the only military aircraft maker in the country, and there is a need to bring some competition. 'I would say to any premature criticism of HAL. HAL has its own constraints. I mean, the LCA production line has not stabilised, largely because of the delays in engine supplies from the US. But the fact is that they also have their order books full. I think that they already have six years of orders with them. They have their hands full as well. And therefore, I mean, you can't explicitly bar anybody from competing, particularly in the public sector. But you would like to create a level-playing field where others can also bid. They have the first-mover advantage. They are the only military aircraft maker in the country. So they will always have that advantage. But the intent is to bring in some competition, because monopolies are never good. For even a public sector monopoly,' Singh said. The Defence Secretary stated that India's reliance on Russian defence equipment has declined compared to the past. He also noted that the country now imports defence equipment from a broader range of nations, including Israel, France, and the United States. He pointed out that ongoing geopolitical tensions and global conflicts have impacted the timely delivery of defence equipment. 'Russians are one of our leading suppliers. I think the percentage would have come 40 per cent or so, from about 65-70 per cent earlier. I mean, it's not just the Ukraine conflict, which, of course, it has affected some supplies from Russia, the prime example being the S-400s, which are delayed, but where we now have a firm schedule; they'll come next year by April, and one by April, one battery by the end of next year,' Singh said. 'Others - I mean, to be very frank, some of our contracts with Israel also got held up because of their issues, the conflict that they have. So yeah, it's probably inevitable. But the fact is that Israel, Russia, and France - these are ours, and increasingly the US also - they are some of our primary sorts of weapon suppliers now. And to some extent, all of them have been affected by the supply chain disruptions that came after COVID and thereafter by the geopolitical conflicts,' Singh said. On whether India is eyeing American or Russian fifth-generation fighter jets, the Defence Secretary said that the discussions with the countries are not in the formal stage yet. 'I mean, whatever has been discussed has been informal. We don't really have any formal consultations going on on these. Our intent, of course, will have to be to acquire critical technologies through selective foreign purchases,' he added. (ANI)
