India opens bids for 5th gen stealth fighter jet, sets 2029 flight target

Time of India

5 hours ago

India has formally opened the race to build its first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter, the AMCA. In a key move to modernise the Air Force and cut foreign reliance, the government has invited Indian defence firms to bid for development. The project will involve a competitive industry partnership model and aims to deliver six squadrons by 2035. With rival China racing ahead in aerial capabilities, the AMCA is central to India's long-term security and defence self-reliance.
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Strict timelines, major investment
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AMCA: Built in phases, designed for the future
What will the AMCA bring to the table?
India has launched an open call for domestic defence companies to help build its first home-grown fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) formally uploaded an expression of interest (EOI) on Wednesday to identify firms capable of co-developing and manufacturing the aircraft's prototypes, and assisting in its flight testing and certification.This move comes at a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is facing a serious shortfall in operational fighter squadrons. The count has dropped to 31, far below the sanctioned strength of 42. Meanwhile, China has already deployed its fifth-generation J-20 fighters and is reportedly advancing two sixth-generation prototypes, the J-36 and J-50.The Ministry of Defence has approved a competitive execution model for the AMCA programme, ensuring both public and private companies are eligible. This breaks from the long-standing assumption that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India's state-run aircraft builder, would lead the programme.Defence Minister Rajnath Singh cleared the industry partnership framework on 27 May. 'Reputed Indian companies experienced in aerospace and defence sector with capability to absorb the design of AMCA and have adequate experience in the field of development & engineering, manufacturing, equipping, integration, testing, quality management, customer support etc will be shortlisted,' the EOI document stated.The ADA, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will oversee the execution. The EOI also confirms that applicants may apply as a single company, joint venture or consortium, provided they are compliant with Indian laws and regulations.The AMCA contract is set for a maximum duration of eight years from the effective date. The shortlisted entity will need to set up a dedicated manufacturing facility to support eventual mass production.A pre-EOI briefing will be held in the first week of July 2025. The deadline for submissions is 16 August 2025. As per the current roadmap, the first prototype is expected to take flight by 2029. Full development should wrap up by 2034, with production likely to begin a year later.The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by the Prime Minister, approved the AMCA's design and development in 2023 at a cost of around ₹15,000 crore. This includes building five twin-engine prototypes.Firms likely to show interest include Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro, Adani Defence and Aerospace, and the Mahindra Group. HAL, though no longer the guaranteed frontrunner, remains in strong contention.The AMCA execution model is expected to unlock new opportunities in India's aerospace ecosystem, helping build long-term industrial capacity and reducing import dependency. For the IAF, it offers a leap forward in capability—especially as the regional security environment grows more complex.China has already placed its J-20 stealth fighters into active service. It is also producing the J-35, which Pakistan is reportedly considering buying. This gives the India-Pakistan-China theatre a new dimension, with stealth aircraft rapidly becoming the new baseline for air superiority.While India has been offered foreign fifth-gen fighters—including the US F-35 and Russia's Su-57—New Delhi has chosen to stick with its indigenous plan. 'America is paving the way to provide India the F-35 stealth fighters,' said US President Donald Trump in February. Russia earlier this year proposed joint production of the Su-57 in India.India, however, has not taken up either offer.The AMCA is being developed in two distinct phases. The initial Mk-1 version will be powered by the American F-414 engine and will form the first two IAF squadrons. The Mk-2 variant will follow, featuring a more powerful engine developed in India with foreign collaboration. This second version will form the remaining four squadrons.By 2035, India plans to deploy six squadrons—roughly 120 aircraft. These jets are expected to become the backbone of the IAF's future force structure.The AMCA is envisioned as a 25-tonne swing-role fighter, capable of both offensive and defensive missions. Its stealth features are aimed at reducing radar detection. Internal weapon bays, super-cruise capability, 360-degree situational awareness, advanced avionics, and next-gen mission computers are all part of the design.Its ability to fly at supersonic speeds without afterburners will give it both range and endurance. And with all weapons housed internally, the aircraft will have a minimal radar footprint, crucial in modern warfare.This tender marks one of the biggest openings for Indian aerospace firms to shape the future of national defence. With a defined timeline, significant financial commitment, and a clear roadmap to production, the AMCA programme offers high reward—but demands high capability.The AMCA is not just about a jet. It is about building long-term self-reliance, enhancing industrial capacity, and sending a message that India intends to lead in next-generation defence technologies.(With inputs from Reuters)