Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) News and Discussion

[PRO]

Why Tejas MkII Matters for India's AMCA Development​

India's pursuit of a homegrown, technologically superior fifth-generation fighter aircraft received a significant push with the recent Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approval for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) development program.

While the AMCA represents a leap in India's aerospace capabilities, its success heavily hinges on the less glamorous but equally crucial Tejas MkII program. The MkII acts as both a technological stepping stone and an essential "feeder" system, paving the path toward the AMCA's realization.

Beyond an Upgrade: The MkII as a Testbed​

The Tejas MkII isn't just an upgraded version of the existing Tejas fighter; it's a critical incubator for the advanced technologies that will define the AMCA.

By testing and refining these systems on the MkII, India significantly reduces the risks associated with integrating them directly into the more complex AMCA program. This approach accelerates development timelines and enhances the AMCA's chances of success.

Shared DNA: Line Replaceable Units​

One critical aspect of the technological bridge between the Tejas MkII and AMCA is their extensive use of shared Line Replaceable Units (LRUs). These modular components form the core of an aircraft's various systems.

Sharing LRUs streamlines the AMCA's development, reduces costs, and ensures a smoother technological transition between the two aircraft.

Cutting-Edge Tech: What the MkII Brings to the Table​

The Tejas MkII will be a flying laboratory for several technologies intended for the AMCA. Here's a look at some of the key advancements:

• Wide Area Display (WAD): A panoramic cockpit display offering pilots unprecedented situational awareness.
• Sensor Fusion: The integration of data from multiple sensors for a comprehensive battlefield overview.
• Side-stick Controller: Improved ergonomics for pilot comfort and precision control during maneuvers.
• Electronic Pilot: An AI-assisted system to aid pilots in flight control and decision-making.
• Digital Flight Control Computer (DFCC): Advanced computer systems ensuring stable, accurate flight control.
• Weapons Management Computer: Precision management and deployment of the AMCA's diverse weapon systems.
• Auxiliary Computer: Additional processing power for complex onboard calculations.
• Unified Video and Data Recorder: Capture of vital flight information for analysis and improvement.

Beyond Components: Cockpit and Radar​

In addition to specific LRUs, the MkII's "Smart Cockpit" – with advanced displays and human-machine interface (HMI) – will provide a blueprint for the AMCA's interface.

The improved Uttam AESA radar, based on Tejas Mk1A's radar and further enhanced with Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, directly contributes to the AMCA's powerful sensor suite.

Conclusion​

The Tejas MkII is far more than just a stepping stone towards India's fifth-generation fighter ambitions; it's a critical proving ground for essential technologies.

The successful integration and testing of these systems on the MkII will not only reduce risk for the AMCA but will also provide invaluable data and experience for India's aerospace engineers.

This methodical approach is a testament to India's determination to develop a truly indigenous and cutting-edge fighter aircraft program.

 

[PRO]

China's Stealth Fighter Jet Expansion Demands Urgent AMCA Response​

India's efforts to modernize its air force and maintain regional air superiority face a growing challenge as China accelerates its production of advanced stealth fighters.

A recent report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) highlights the urgency for India's indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program in response to China's rapidly developing military capabilities.

China's Stealth Fighter Dominance​

China's J-20A Mighty Dragon, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, outpaces the production of the United States' F-22 Raptor, the world's first operational fifth-generation fighter.

Estimates suggest China surpassed the US in the number of operational J-20s by 2023, with over 150 in service according to the IISS February 2023 report.

Credible sources like Scramble magazine indicate that China may possess as many as 250 J-20s by the end of 2023, significantly exceeding earlier production projections. This expanded fleet gives China a distinct technological and numerical edge in regional airpower.

Implications for India​

India's existing airpower, centered around the aging MiG-21 and the capable but non-stealthy 4.5 generation Su-30MKI, will find itself increasingly challenged by China's advanced fighters.

The strained geopolitical relationship between India and China amplifies the threat posed by China's advanced military capabilities.

Furthermore, Pakistan's potential acquisition of Turkish-designed TF-X stealth fighters through its collaboration in the KAAN project adds another dimension of complexity to India's security situation.

AMCA: A Critical Response​

India recognizes the urgency of countering these security challenges. Expediting the development of the AMCA is essential to maintain its air superiority in the region.

The AMCA, a planned fifth-generation stealth fighter, is a cornerstone of India's defence modernization efforts. Success relies on overcoming bureaucratic hurdles, streamlining the development process, and ensuring ample funding to bring the AMCA into operational service as rapidly as possible.

Beyond the AMCA​

While the AMCA is vital, India must also explore additional options to enhance its air defence capabilities:

• Partnerships and Procurement: Collaborating with international partners to procure or jointly develop advanced fighter aircraft could provide a more immediate solution to bolster India's air power while the AMCA development matures.
• Air Defence Upgrades: Investing in upgrading India's existing air defence systems and integrating them with next-generation technologies is crucial to maintaining a strong deterrent against aerial threats.
• Diversified Defence: A multi-pronged approach, including strengthening naval and cyberwarfare capabilities, would reduce overreliance on any single aspect of India's defence posture and complicate adversarial strategies.

Conclusion​

China's aggressive ramp-up of stealth fighter production puts significant pressure on India's defence sector.

The success of the AMCA program is crucial for India's long-term strategic security.

Nevertheless, India must also consider a multi-faceted approach, including partnerships, technological upgrades, and strategic diversification, to effectively address the evolving threats in the region.

 

[shivkumar sinha]

Danger posed by so called chinese J-20 is overhyped. However it is true that Bharat should be extremely serious in eliminating hurdles in the way of AMCA. Usual callous attitude will not work.

 

[sanket]

So Su-30 MKI may have GaA AESA Radar , while AMCA is going to have GaN based AESA Radar., so Most of the Tech and weapons will b developed while Flight Testing Tejas MK2 so AMCA MK1 can Meet Time line . Crucial thing will b Developing Aero-Engine for AMCA MK2 with 110kN to 120kN before 2034. .

 

[Anant]

110kN to 120kN before 2024

Before 2024? Seems to be some error there.

 

[Anant]

Danger posed by so called chinese J-20 is overhyped. However it is true that Bharat should be extremely serious in eliminating hurdles in the way of AMCA. Usual callous attitude will not work.

And what exactly do you base that premise on? I agree that the J-20 is overhyped, but it should not be underestimated.

 

[sanket]

Before 2024? Seems to be some error there.

2034 Foreign partner for AMCA Engine may b selected after Election so within 10 years Engine has to Ready to Integrate in AMCA MK2 Initial batches of AMCAMK1 May have GE-414 98kN Engine.

 

[Satya Dev]

I think we should shelve the TEDBF project so as to concentrate only on TejasMk2 & AMCA and develop deck based AMCA later as a supplementary development since the requirement for deck based fighters will not be substantial.

 

[INDIAN]

Tejas Mk2 development should be done on war footing ,now that it got the fund.

 

[ryan]

J20 somehow barely matches the capabilities of the Su30MKI & is unnecessarily overhyped by CCP Paid Media. CCP Paid Propaganda in full action mode to put fake pressure on US & its allies & India. J20 can be early detected by the BARS PESA radars designed in 90s & neither has reliable & suffiecient thrust generating engines needed for modern sensor fusion. So much for being "stealth" that too with stolen & hacked US tech

 

[Instant Karma]

Government has unnecessarily wasted a lot of time in trying to find a private company to lead the AMCA programme. No need to do so any more. Instead government should form a consortium of companies consisting of HAL, BEL, BDL, BHEL and MIDHANI as partners in the AMCA program and HAL as the leading partner. Ultimately all these companies are going to supply the majority of the subsystems of the AMCA program.

DRDO, NAL, ADA as the development partners and Boeing or lockdown Martin can be roped in as the foreign advisors.

 

[Ramsses CDXX]

Another #AisaHoingaWaisaHoinga 2.0 Absolutely no one in India has any idea on this. I was completely aloof of this. 🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️

See ya in 2028❗

💆🏻

 

[sanket]

MRFA should b Fast Track . if current Govt Retains to Power then all defence project will b fast Tracked Deal for 26 Rafale Marine is Pending. with CCS Clearance For AMCA second part will b Engine partner slection and developing that Engine within 10 years.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

I think we should shelve the TEDBF project so as to concentrate only on TejasMk2 & AMCA and develop deck based AMCA later as a supplementary development since the requirement for deck based fighters will not be substantial.

We need to have jets for our carriers, without jets, carriers are basically super expensive targets

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

The subsystems are more or less same for tedbf, amca and tedbf. The only major difference are in design. Amca has stealthy design with internal weapons bay, tedbf has foldable wings, both have twin engines, otherwise they are same to tejas mk2 when it comes to performance, payload etc.

 

[shivkumar sinha]

And what exactly do you base that premise on? I agree that the J-20 is overhyped, but it should not be underestimated.

Simple. No chinese weapon anywhere in the world has worked as advertised. J-20 specially is not tested in any battle.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

Government has unnecessarily wasted a lot of time in trying to find a private company to lead the AMCA programme. No need to do so any more. Instead government should form a consortium of companies consisting of HAL, BEL, BDL, BHEL and MIDHANI as partners in the AMCA program and HAL as the leading partner. Ultimately all these companies are going to supply the majority of the subsystems of the AMCA program.

DRDO, NAL, ADA as the development partners and Boeing or lockdown Martin can be roped in as the foreign advisors.

AMCA development is going to be super expensive. The govt wants to reduce costs somewhat by inviting private players who can make up the cost by getting future govt aerospace contracts. It will also lead to increased competition in aerospace sector in india. Win Win. Maybe other strat is required since it is not working till now.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

Danger posed by so called chinese J-20 is overhyped. However it is true that Bharat should be extremely serious in eliminating hurdles in the way of AMCA. Usual callous attitude will not work.

the attitude has already shifted, this govt is extremely focused on domestic defence production, slowly the PSU have also realised that. Massive invested has taken place in recent years in defence production, we will see results soon.

 

[beencensured]

So Su-30 MKI may have GaA AESA Radar , while AMCA is going to have GaN based AESA Radar.

They will all have GaN AESA radars.

 

[beencensured]

Tejas mkII is supposed to be more aerodynamic and stealthier then Tejas mk1a. Tejas mk2 was envisioned as semi-stealth plane capable of super cruise. Tejas mk2 finial capabilities will be awaited. Nice they have sensor fusion, hopefully they will have AI targeting too on Tejas mk2.