Move Over Rafale-5, F-35, Su-57E: India Opens Rs 15,000-Crore Bid To Build 5th Gen Fighter Jets
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The govt has issued an EoI for this high-profile project, open to firms, JVs, or consortia. Applications close on August 16, and the project must be completed within 8 years
In a significant step towards self-reliance in defence, India has invited companies to develop indigenous fifth-generation fighter jets. The move comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions — with the Russia-Ukraine war dragging on, Israel opening a new front against Iran, and India responding to the Pahalgam terror attack with Operation Sindoor.
According to experts, this move means India will no longer have to completely rely on foreign fifth-generation fighter jets like the Rafale-5, F-35, or Su-57E.
The government has issued an Expression of Interest for this high-profile project, allowing single companies, joint ventures, or consortia to apply. The initial budget for developing the prototype is set at Rs 15,000 crore, with the potential for subsequent orders running into several thousand crores.
'The objective of this EOI is to shortlist Indian companies (owned and controlled by resident Indian citizens) who are technically capable for the development, building of prototypes, supporting flight test and certification of AMCA (advanced medium combat aircraft)," the EOI document stated.
Interested companies must submit their applications by August 16, with a maximum project completion time of eight years. This initiative marks a significant step in India's largest military research endeavour.
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) will evaluate and shortlist established Indian companies with a proven track record in aerospace and defence. To qualify, firms must demonstrate the ability to absorb and implement the AMCA's design, along with experience in key areas such as engineering, manufacturing, system integration, testing, quality assurance, and post-delivery support. Additionally, companies must be capable of setting up infrastructure for full-scale series production of the aircraft.
What's The Budget For India's 5th-Gen Jet?
fifth-generation fighter jet prototype is developed, the selected company is expected to receive large-scale defence orders in the future.
The importance of a fifth-generation aircraft for India cannot be understated. While the country has developed indigenous cruise and ballistic missiles and air defence systems, such as the proven Akash system, the lack of a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet remains a significant gap. The government aims to address this shortfall within the next decade to decade and a half.
Which Companies Can Place Their Bets?
Potential contenders for this project include both public and private sector companies. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Adani Defence, and Larsen & Toubro are all likely candidates to participate in this ambitious endeavour.
On May 27, in a major step towards strengthening India's self-reliance in defence and building a strong local aerospace industry, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gave the green light to the implementation framework for the AMCA programme.
The AMCA programme will be carried out by the ADA in collaboration with industry partners. The chosen model ensures a level playing field, encouraging both private and public sector entities to compete on equal terms.
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