India has adopted a new execution model for its indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Under this model, private companies are now allowed to bid for the project alongside the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This marks a significant policy shift from India’s earlier stance where only HAL handled fighter aircraft production.
Equal Opportunity for Public and Private Players
The new model was approved by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and is designed to fast-track prototype development and aircraft induction by leveraging a stronger domestic aerospace industry. Both private companies and public sector undertakings can now bid on equal footing. Bidders must be Indian entities complying with domestic laws and may operate independently, in joint ventures with foreign OEMs, or as part of consortia.
HAL Expected to Partner with Private Players
HAL, which is currently managing multiple aviation projects, is expected to participate in the AMCA bidding process through collaborations with private firms. The company is already committed to producing 180 Tejas Mark-1A jets worth ₹1.2 lakh crore and has future plans for 108 Tejas Mark-2 aircraft and various helicopter projects.
DRDO’s ADA to Invite Industry Participation
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under DRDO, responsible for designing and developing the 25-tonne AMCA, will soon issue an Expression of Interest (EoI) to initiate industry partnerships for the prototype development phase. Officials emphasized that HAL will not receive the AMCA project by default and will have to compete like other bidders.
Strategic Urgency Amid Regional Developments
The move to speed up AMCA development comes amid rising regional tensions. Pakistan is in the process of acquiring at least 40 fifth-generation J-35A jets from China, which is also working on sixth-generation aircraft. Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is operating only 30 active fighter squadrons, significantly below the sanctioned strength of 42.5, with several more squadrons set for retirement in the next decade.
Major Investment for Full-Scale Development
The PM-led Cabinet Committee on Security had approved the engineering development of five AMCA prototypes and a structural test specimen in March last year. The development, including flight testing and certification, is being handled by ADA at a cost of over ₹15,000 crore.
Targeted Induction and Advanced Features
The AMCA is expected to be ready for production by 2035. The IAF plans to induct seven squadrons (126 jets) featuring internal weapons bays, serpentine air intakes, advanced sensor fusion, AI-based electronic pilot systems, and integrated vehicle health management. While the initial two squadrons will use 98 kN GE-F414 engines, the next five will be powered by 110 kN engines.
Engine Co-Production in Progress
HAL and General Electric are currently engaged in techno-commercial negotiations to co-produce the GE-F414 engines in India. The deal includes an 80% transfer of technology and is estimated to cost around $1.5 billion.
