Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) News and Discussion

[Sandeep]

India has the knowledge, talent and education to design and develop the AMCA 100% indigenously and there was always going to be a long period of testing it all out. The real benefit is when they develop the AMCA MK2 which will use a brand new indigenously designed and developed engine with Safran.

 

[shubham saini]

Good news but if we want to compete with china we need a lot more effort.

 

[Aayush Dhaundiyal]

When can the Mk1A reach the production rate of 24/30? Probably, 2029 By then I think it should be close to completing the initial order for 83. Then there is a pending order for 97. If we take it by 2032 then m1a would be done with production and the line could be shifted to Mk2. I do not see any significant production or hopes for mk2 before this. Probably the same time Mk2 is supposed to be in production, another foreign-designed fighter should be in production as well. Now to say with hope, HAL successfully manages to put a separate production for TEDBF and Even AMCA too by 2032, especially considering the current rate is poor even after a decade of IOC, needs you either be a fanatic or a kid

 

[Nitin R]

What has HAL got to do with AMCA ? Isn't ADA the sole developer ?
DRDO is the most incompetent in the ecosystem. IAF is incompetent as well. HAL can be privatised, but what about DRDO and IAF ? This is a problem of our culture developed during early days of socialism.

Cite some light on your contributions, as you are finding issues.who is stopping you to join private defence industry and do miracles as it's apparent you won't settle for less , it's clear.

 

[kumar]

Funding becomes available straight away

No. It can take about 2 to 3 months.

 

[kumar]

The private sector are the main companies that manufacture the parts, components and technology. HAL mostly make the crucial technology like engines but other than that they assemble the jet and certify

I am talking about AMCA spv where they are supposed to take the lead. What u are talking is subcontracting.

 

[venkat]

HAL and ADA will need 10 more years than anything planned. goI keeps placing its bets on 2 failed organizations

 

[Jay K Sinhal]

Good luck and best wishes.

 

[Pad UwU]

AMCA is still on drawing board for it's so called mki while the d@mn Korean already tested it's kf21 Boramae now already develop it's mkii model same goes to Turks Kaan😹😹😹

 

[Pad UwU]

I highly doubtful when I don't see it 😹😹😹

 

[Bikramjeet Goswami]

By the time the prototype starts flying, the US and China would probably starting inducting their 6th Gem fighters. 😁

 

[charminar_waale_ismail_bhai]

Let’s see when ADA comes back with their bowl to ask for additional funds and time.

Plus, excuse which would sound something similar to how Covid-19 still continues to delay all past, present & future programs.

 

[Mrityunjay Shrivastav]

One exception in the timeline, in next term Govt divests half of its stake in HAL and ropes in a pvt player as Tier 1 manufacturing/assembly partner for AMCA asking HAL to work in parallel at their own laggard pace

Funds are cleared now, how you expect them to make prototype without money?

 

[Sandeep]

No. It can take about 2 to 3 months.

Once cleared by the finance ministry then it gets released. There’s no wait for 2/3 months as then you get a massive backlog of others funds waiting to be cleared.

 

[Sandeep]

I am talking about AMCA spv where they are supposed to take the lead. What u are talking is subcontracting.

The SPV is to encourage more private companies to participate and develop more than just parts and components along with being in charge of making it which can be done faster than DPSU companies under HAL.

 

[kumar]

The SPV is to encourage more private companies to participate and develop more than just parts and components along with being in charge of making it which can be done faster than DPSU companies under HAL.

I know the purpose of spv. But in this specific case it has failed. It is good decision to move on.

 

[kumar]

Once cleared by the finance ministry then it gets released. There’s no wait for 2/3 months as then you get a massive backlog of others funds waiting to be cleared.

From ccs approval to funds disbursal, there was delay of about 3 to 5 months in case of mk2. That's why I said it might take 2 to 3 months.

 

[Rajesh]

The actual deal is when the engine partner will be chosen one among rr or Safran because only those 2 will have an engine development for their 6th gen fighter. Americans will not have any 6/5th gen fighter with an engine in the range of 110-130kn anytime soon. Hope the engine partner will be chosen quickly once elections r over.despite having 6+nos if ge 414 drdo has not even started any actual work all these years like what turkey has done with their 5th gen development program with the reserve engines they have.

 

[beencensured]

Haha great
Took 11 months ◉⁠‿⁠◉

Akshat forgets it was done February last year well over an year. .

 

[beencensured]

So beating expectations, approval has come in well under a year. Let’s see when ADA comes back with their bowl to ask for additional funds and time.

But you forget to count the over one year delay as it is march and not February.

 

[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.