Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)

Why in News ? India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) Programme Execution Model, marking a significant milestone in India’s indigenous defence capabilities. The AMCA project aims to develop a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, enhancing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) air power amid growing regional tensions and global defense dynamics.

Relevance- Pre & Mains

Prelims: AMCA

Mains: GS 3 ( Science & tech>)

Key Points

Approval of AMCA Programme:

1. • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh greenlit the execution model for the AMCA project.
   • The project involves developing a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet with advanced features, including deep-penetration and superior combat capabilities.

Objective and Importance:

1. • To strengthen India’s indigenous defence manufacturing and foster a robust aerospace ecosystem.
   • To fill the gap in IAF’s strategic requirements, especially given the absence of a fifth-generation fighter in its fleet.
   • Positioned to rival China’s Chengdu J-20 jets.

Collaboration Opportunities:

1. • Private sector companies are invited to bid independently, as joint ventures, or consortia.
   • The project emphasizes “Made in India” with Indian companies adhering to national regulations.

AMCA Features and Role:

1. • Medium-weight, deep-penetration fighter jet with advanced stealth capabilities.
   • Expected to form the backbone of the IAF alongside the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).

Development Costs:

1. • The estimated cost for developing the AMCA is Rs 15,000 crore.

IAF’s Current and Future Requirements:

1. • IAF plans to acquire 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) worth approximately USD 18 billion.
   • The MRFA procurement aims to enhance operational readiness, complementing the AMCA and LCA fleets.

Global Context:

1. • Pakistan relies heavily on Chinese arms imports, including combined exercises with China’s PLA.
   • Rising tensions with Pakistan following India’s “Operation Sindoor” and countering China’s advancements in military aviation.

Legacy and Confidence:

1. • Success with the Tejas LCA program has boosted confidence in the AMCA initiative.
   • Tejas has proven effective in combat and multi-role operations, laying the groundwork for advanced indigenous projects.

Strategic Implications:

1. • Strengthens India’s self-reliance in defence technology.
   • Counters China’s regional dominance and Pakistan’s growing reliance on Chinese military support.