New Delhi: India’s long-anticipated Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) — a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet equipped with cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence features — is on track to take to the skies by the end of 2027, according to Project Director Krishna Rajendra. The milestone will mark a major leap in India’s journey toward indigenous defence manufacturing.
Designed entirely with homegrown technology, the AMCA will match global benchmarks set by the US F-35, China’s J-20, and Russia’s Su-57, featuring serpentine air intakes, radar-absorption systems, and all-aspect stealth design to ensure minimal detectability from any angle.
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and top academic institutions, has finalised the aircraft’s design. The central government has cleared funding of approximately ₹15,000 crore for the first phase, which includes five prototype builds before serial production.
Unlike the Tejas multirole fighter programme, the AMCA is focused exclusively on fifth-generation capabilities. While India will continue to operate and procure fighters such as the Rafale, F-35, and Su-57 in the near term, the AMCA aims to cut long-term import dependence.
Game-Changing Features
Twin-engine, single-seat design with a maximum take-off weight of 25 tonnes.
Internal weapons bay for reduced radar detection; 1.5 tonnes payload in stealth mode.
Non-stealth mode capability for up to 5 tonnes of weapons on external pylons.
Super-cruise for sustained supersonic flight without afterburners.
AESA radar, sensor fusion, network-centric systems for superior battlefield awareness.
AI-powered ‘Electronic Pilot’ to assist human pilots as a virtual co-pilot.
The AMCA incorporates advanced stealth measures, including radar-wave deflection technology, infrared signature reduction, and low electromagnetic emission systems to evade detection. Its serpentine air intakes conceal engine blades from radar, while its heat management technology reduces vulnerability to infrared sensors.
Strategic Edge
The aircraft will eventually replace ageing MiG and Jaguar fleets, operating alongside the Tejas LCA and future Medium Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MMRFA). Once operational, India will join an elite club of nations — currently limited to the US, Russia, and China — with indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet capability.
Defence analysts say the AMCA not only underscores India’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ defence initiative but also promises to strengthen air dominance, boost domestic defence manufacturing, and give India a decisive edge in future aerial warfare.
