India approves stealth fighter programme amid tensions with Pakistan

India took a major step forward in defense modernization with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh giving the green light to the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme. This initiative will result in the country’s first homegrown fifth-generation stealth fighter jet. The approval comes at a time of heightened tensions with neighboring Pakistan and growing Chinese military involvement in the region.

Strengthening National Security and Defense Autonomy

The AMCA programme is a strategic move to reduce India’s dependency on foreign arms and enhance indigenous capabilities. At present, the Indian Air Force (IAF) operates 31 squadrons—well below the approved number of 42. Much of the fleet includes older, Russian-designed aircraft. The introduction of the AMCA is expected to modernize India’s aerial combat forces and improve operational readiness.

This development coincides with Pakistan’s procurement of Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets and reports that Beijing may also supply Islamabad with the J-35, its latest stealth aircraft. These advancements have triggered a regional military build-up and encouraged India to fast-track its own defense technologies.

Project Overview: Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft

The AMCA is envisioned as a versatile, twin-engine, fifth-generation stealth fighter designed for air superiority, strike missions, and electronic warfare. It will feature cutting-edge technologies such as stealth shaping, internal weapons bays, sensor fusion, and supercruise capability, making it a formidable addition to India’s air power.

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), operating under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will lead the project. The program will involve collaboration with both public and private sector companies, promoting innovation and competitive development within India’s aerospace industry.

A Boost to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’

The AMCA programme is closely tied to the Indian government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) campaign. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on imported defense equipment and strengthen domestic production capabilities. By developing an indigenous fifth-generation fighter, India hopes to join an exclusive group of nations, including the U.S., Russia, and China, that have developed such advanced aircraft independently.

The AMCA project is estimated to cost around ₹15,000 crore. The first prototype is expected by 2030, with full-scale production slated to begin around 2035. Besides strengthening national security, the project is anticipated to generate employment and elevate India’s standing in the global defense industry.

Addressing Technological and Logistical Challenges

While the AMCA promises to be a transformative project, it is not without challenges. Past defense programmes, such as the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, faced delays largely due to supply chain and technological issues, particularly in sourcing jet engines. To overcome such bottlenecks, India is working to revive and complete the Kaveri engine project, aiming to develop a homegrown powerplant for future aircraft.

If the AMCA project is successful, it will not only modernize the IAF but also help India emerge as a credible manufacturer and exporter of advanced defense technology. It will provide India with greater strategic independence, especially in times of geopolitical friction.

Conclusion

India’s approval of the AMCA programme marks a significant milestone in its pursuit of self-reliance and defense innovation. As tensions rise in South Asia and global security dynamics evolve, this initiative underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities with indigenous technologies. With a clear roadmap in place and growing industrial support, the AMCA project is set to shape the future of India’s aerial defense landscape.