India's AMCA to Feature "Beast Mode" Like F-35 and F-22, Unleashing Offensive Firepower Following Initial Stealth Operations

India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation fighter under development, is set to incorporate a unique "Beast Mode" configuration, according to Air Force planners.

This mode will allow the AMCA to switch from a stealthy platform to a heavily armed aircraft, maximizing its offensive capabilities for specific mission requirements.

In its standard configuration, the AMCA will prioritize stealth, carrying weapons internally to minimize its radar signature. However, once air superiority is established and enemy air defences are suppressed, the AMCA can transition into "Beast Mode." This involves utilizing external hardpoints to carry a significantly larger payload of bombs and missiles, prioritizing firepower over stealth.

This concept, while not entirely new, offers significant tactical advantages. By adapting to different mission profiles, the AMCA can effectively perform a wider range of roles, from deep penetration strikes to close air support. "Beast Mode" is particularly suited for scenarios where enemy air defences are neutralized, and the need for stealth is diminished.

The ability to switch between stealth and "Beast Mode" not only enhances the AMCA's versatility but also offers logistical benefits. By utilizing "Beast Mode" for missions where stealth is less critical, the wear and tear on the aircraft's stealth coatings and systems can be reduced, leading to lower operational costs in the long run.

The AMCA's "Beast Mode" draws inspiration from similar configurations seen in other fifth-generation fighters like the F-35 and F-22 Raptor. However, India's AMCA is expected to integrate indigenous technologies, including the Uttam AESA radar developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and advanced weaponry designed to optimize payload efficiency.

This dual configuration approach positions the AMCA as a potential game-changer in India's aerial combat capabilities. By effectively bridging the gap between stealth technology and traditional high-payload missions, the AMCA is poised to play a crucial role in safeguarding India's airspace and projecting its air power in the years to come.

It is important to note that the AMCA is still under development, and specific details about its capabilities and configurations may evolve over time. However, the incorporation of "Beast Mode" underscores India's commitment to developing advanced and adaptable combat aircraft to meet the challenges of modern warfare.

 

[saffronsword]

DRDO playing with my emotions...... bhai !!!

 

[sanket]

Twin combat role is important, unlike only stealth mode combat missions. Max payload carrying for performing max impact in one sortie rather than more sorties. Well done, DRDO!

 

[R. Singh]

Geometric stealth based air frame tech should be replicated in Tejas-1A and AF-Mk-II/MWF ! We are eagerly waiting for 145+ AMCA-MK-I in beast configuration till 2035 !

 

[P.K Senapati]

It is good that AMCA has an internal weapon bay inside the fuselage for stealth missions during the initial phases of war. It also has hardpoints on the wing to carry extra weapons for carrying maximum payload for maximum damage on the other side. We also need to finalize an engine partner for the 110kN engine.

 

[Raja Raja Cholan]

It is good to hear that DRDO is employing advanced technologies in AMCA. But it would be more exciting to hear that great news on the roll out date as planned without shifting timelines as usual. Probably the best news from HAL.

 

[Sandeep]

This is a good idea as not all missions require stealth. Once most of their radars and SAM are destroyed and air superiority is achieved then the 4.5+ generation jet can take over. This will cut down on costs rather than using RAM paint regularly which is expensive.

However we need to ensure that we have a large number of stealth fighters to take on bombing missions and enemy fighter jets because then we won’t be able to achieve air superiority so we can’t cut corners.

 

[Garuda]

We all know this, but why don't anyone discuss that why AMCA doesn't have side internal weapons bay like other 5th gen fighter?

 

[souravroy]

The AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft), India’s 5th-generation stealth fighter project, features a main internal weapons bay (IWB) rather than additional side internal bays like the F-22 or Su-57. This design choice is influenced by several factors:

1. Design Simplicity and Stealth Optimization​

A centrally located internal weapons bay reduces structural complexity and weight.

Side bays, like those on the F-22, add mechanical complexity and could create additional radar return points, impacting stealth.

2. Aircraft Size and Role​

The AMCA is a medium-weight fighter (around 25 tons max takeoff weight), while jets with side bays (e.g., F-22, Su-57) are heavier.

A single large bay optimizes space for larger air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions.

3. Reduced Need for WVR (Within Visual Range) Missiles​

The F-22 has side bays primarily for quick launch of short-range missiles (AIM-9X).

The AMCA, like the F-35, may rely more on beyond-visual-range (BVR) combat, reducing the need for separate side-mounted missiles.

4. Manufacturing and Cost Considerations​

Integrating side bays increases design, testing, and production costs.

A single internal bay allows for faster development and reduces maintenance issues.

In summary, AMCA prioritizes a simpler, more efficient internal weapons bay design to balance stealth, cost, and operational effectiveness. It follows a concept closer to the F-35 rather than the F-22.

 

[Prem Jain]

AMCA is a very encouraging project and the only drawback is that we are dependent on GE , the most undependable . Once the indigenous Kaveri engine is ready and innovations on it is made, we can think about Atmanirbhar. Only that can give us the required strength to assert our independence and dominance. Hope that’s our vision . 🙏🙏

 

[St. Thomas]

Twin combat role is important, unlike only stealth mode combat missions. Max payload carrying for performing max impact in one sortie rather than more sorties. Well done, DRDO!

All good to hear but with the multilevel bureaucracy and the corresponding delay and corruption, is this ever going to fill in the yet to be filled squadrons with even a suitable engine selection still in imagination. Hope the government fast tracks the issue with PM directly involving and cutting away a few layers of bureaucracy to make it roll out into full production in the next 2 years atleast

 

[cosmic_pedler_]

Okay that's really great but first finish the design and make one prototype then compare with F35. 🙂