India has taken a major leap in defense innovation with the formal approval of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project. On May 27, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh gave the green signal for the execution model of the AMCA, paving the way for the development of the country’s first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet.
The AMCA is being developed as a twin-engine, stealth-capable aircraft featuring advanced technologies like reduced radar signature, internal weapons carriage, and futuristic systems such as directed energy weapons. This approval marks a key milestone under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, aimed at reducing dependency on foreign defense imports and building indigenous capabilities.
The project will be led by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), with extensive collaboration between the public and private sectors. The execution model allows Indian companies to participate directly or through joint ventures, thereby encouraging domestic defense manufacturing and creating a foundation for a strong aerospace ecosystem in India.
This development is crucial as the Indian Air Force is currently operating with only 31 squadrons, far short of the sanctioned strength of 42. With neighboring countries like China and Pakistan rapidly upgrading their aerial combat capabilities, the AMCA project is vital to maintaining air superiority in the region and strengthening national security.
India aims to induct the AMCA by 2035, with the first five prototypes expected within the next five years. Once operational, the Indian Air Force is projected to induct about 200 AMCA jets. The project is also expected to provide a significant economic boost, with an estimated investment of ₹15,000 crore. This will not only enhance India’s defense strength but also generate employment and establish the country as a global player in stealth aircraft technology.
The AMCA marks India’s entry into the elite group of nations capable of developing fifth-generation fighter jets. This move reflects the country’s growing technological ambitions and its commitment to becoming self-reliant in critical defense sectors.
