India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme is entering a major phase as the Ministry of Defence is likely to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to one of the shortlisted private sector consortia by the end of May 2026.
The AMCA fighter jet project is India’s ambitious plan to build an indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Reports suggest that legal scrutiny of the project model has been completed and the next stage may begin soon.
What Is the AMCA Fighter Jet Programme?
The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft is India’s next-generation stealth fighter jet programme led by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The aircraft is expected to include:
- Stealth technology
- Internal weapon bays
- Advanced avionics
- AESA radar
- AI-assisted systems
- Supercruise capability
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The Indian Air Force plans to induct around 120 aircraft in phases.
Defence Ministry Nears Key Decision
According to recent reports, the Defence Ministry has completed a legal examination of the manufacturing process and is preparing to issue the RFP to shortlisted private sector groups.
This move is important because:
- It opens India’s top fighter jet programme to private industry.
- It reduces dependence on foreign aircraft imports.
- It supports the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
- It creates a competitive aerospace ecosystem in India.
Officials have indicated that shortlisted firms may soon submit commercial bids before the final contract is awarded.
Which Companies Are in the Race?
Reports say three private sector-led groups have been shortlisted:
- Tataadvancedsystems
- Larsentoubro along with BEL
- Bharatforge with partners including BEML and Data Patterns
State-owned HAL reportedly did not make the final shortlist for prototype development, though it may still participate later during mass production stages.
Why AMCA Fighter Jet Programme Is Important for India
The AMCA project is considered one of India’s most strategic defence programmes.
Key Benefits
- Strengthens indigenous defence manufacturing
- Boosts aerospace technology capability
- Encourages private sector participation
- Supports future defence exports
- Improves India’s air combat strength
Experts also believe the programme will help India compete with advanced fighter aircraft developed by countries like China and the United States.
AMCA Fighter Jet Programme: Expected Timeline
Current reports suggest:
- Prototype rollout may happen between 2028 and 2029
- First flight is expected around 2029
- Operational induction could begin by 2034–2035
The AMCA Mk-1 variant is expected to use GE F414 engines, while the future Mk-2 version may receive a more powerful jointly developed indigenous engine.
Industry Shift in Indian Defence Sector
The AMCA programme marks a major change in India’s defence manufacturing model.
For decades, major fighter aircraft projects were largely controlled by public sector companies. Now, private companies are being given larger roles in advanced military aviation.
This could lead to:
- Faster manufacturing
- Better competition
- More innovation
- Growth of Indian defence startups and SMEs
Industry analysts see this as a turning point for India’s aerospace and defence sector.
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