A high-level committee is examining the possibility of significantly accelerating the induction of India's indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) into the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The committee, aiming to bolster India's air combat capabilities, could see the first AMCA Mk1 fighters joining the IAF fleet as early as 2033, two years ahead of the initial 2035 target.
The committee, led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, includes key figures such as IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal S.P. Dharkar, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, and senior officials from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).
Their report, expected next month, is anticipated to outline a roadmap for faster AMCA deployment. This initiative reflects India's commitment to modernizing its air force in response to evolving regional security challenges.
A phased approach is being considered, with two AMCA variants: the Mk1 and the more advanced Mk2. The AMCA Mk1 will be powered by the readily available General Electric F414 engine, the same engine that will power the Tejas Mk2. This decision allows for faster production and deployment, as the F414 is a proven platform. The AMCA Mk2, planned for later induction, will feature a new, more powerful 110kN thrust-class engine, currently under development.
The committee is reportedly considering a recommendation for an initial order of 40 AMCA Mk1 aircraft after the successful completion of trials on five prototypes. These prototypes are currently undergoing various stages of design and development. The trials, expected to be completed by the end of 2031 or early 2032, will rigorously test the aircraft's stealth capabilities, avionics, sensors, and weapons systems.
If the proposed timeline is met, the IAF could begin receiving the first batch of 40 AMCA Mk1 fighters by 2033. This early induction would not only enhance the IAF's operational strength but also provide valuable experience for air and ground crews in handling a fifth-generation platform, smoothing the transition to the future Mk2 variant.
Even with the existing F414 engine, the AMCA Mk1 will represent a significant upgrade for the IAF. It will incorporate key fifth-generation features, including stealth technology, an internal weapons bay (allowing the aircraft to carry weapons internally to reduce its radar signature), an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, and sophisticated situational awareness systems. These features surpass the capabilities of the IAF's current fourth and fourth-plus generation fighters, such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Dassault Rafale.
While the accelerated timeline is ambitious, significant challenges remain. Developing a fifth-generation fighter is a complex undertaking, requiring the seamless integration of advanced technologies. Close collaboration between the ADA, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), private sector defence companies, and a reliable supply chain for critical components will be essential.
Rigorous testing of the prototypes is crucial to ensure the AMCA meets the IAF's operational needs. Delays in testing could impact the production timeline. The development of the more powerful 110kN engine for the AMCA Mk2 is also a key factor. International collaborations, potentially with companies like Safran and Rolls-Royce, are being explored, but finalizing technology transfer and intellectual property agreements may take time.
The successful early induction of the AMCA Mk1 would be a major milestone for India's indigenous defence industry. It would demonstrate India's growing self-reliance in defence production, a key objective of the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative.
The advanced capabilities of the AMCA, particularly its stealth features, would significantly improve the IAF's ability to operate in contested airspace, conduct precision strikes, and ensure air superiority – crucial capabilities in the face of evolving security threats.
