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The Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, has voiced strong optimism for India's indigenous fifth-generation fighter program, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the 93rd Air Force Day, he confirmed that the aircraft's first flight is on track for 2028, with formal induction into the IAF expected by 2035.
The Air Chief also addressed recent speculation about a potential purchase of Russia's Su-57 fighter, clarifying that any foreign acquisition would be subject to a rigorous evaluation process based strictly on the IAF's operational needs.
This official statement highlights the IAF's two-pronged approach: prioritising the development of home-grown military technology under the Atmanirbhar Bharat policy, while simultaneously keeping options open for international purchases to address the current shortfall in squadron strength.
AMCA: The Future of Indian Air Power
The AMCA is positioned to be the cornerstone of India's future air combat capability. Developed jointly by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the twin-engine jet is designed to be a stealth multirole fighter.Key features include internal weapons bays to reduce radar visibility, the ability to fly at supersonic speeds without afterburners (supercruise), and advanced data-sharing networks.
The IAF plans to acquire between 126 to 200 of these aircraft, enough to equip up to six squadrons, ensuring it can compete with advanced fighters like China’s J-20.
"As I understand, it is going to fly this decade, in 2028... and by 2035, it is supposed to be inducted," said Air Chief Marshal Singh, adding that these timelines could potentially be improved with dedicated efforts. "I personally feel this timeline can be achieved, or maybe even better."
Project on Schedule with Key Technologies Proven
The AMCA program is proceeding along a clear development path. A prototype is expected to be unveiled between late 2026 and early 2027, leading up to the 2028 maiden flight.The government has shown firm commitment to the project, sanctioning ₹15,000 crore in March 2024 for its full-scale engineering and development phase.
The Air Chief noted that many critical technologies for the AMCA have already been developed and tested on other platforms, significantly reducing risks.
These include the indigenous 'Uttam' AESA radar and diverterless supersonic intakes, which have been proven on prototypes of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft.
This strategy of using matured subsystems is expected to streamline the AMCA's development and help meet its ambitious deadlines.
A Methodical Approach to Foreign Aircraft
While the AMCA represents the long-term future, the IAF must also manage its immediate requirements.With the phased retirement of older aircraft like the MiG-21s, the force currently operates with around 31 squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42. To bridge this gap, India is considering several foreign aircraft under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender.
Regarding Russia's Su-57, the Air Chief Marshal downplayed reports of an imminent deal.
"We have to weigh all the options," he stated, emphasizing that the Ministry of Defence and the IAF follow a "very set process" for acquiring any new weapon system.
He clarified that any aircraft selected "will depend on what meets the requirement and what is best for us."
This cautious stance suggests that while the Su-57, along with the French Rafale and American F-35, is an option, it will not be a default choice and must prove its value against strict criteria, including the extent of technology transfer for local manufacturing.
