India’s defence industry is on the cusp of major breakthrough showing for the first time at Aero India the full-scale engineering model of its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project. This ambitious venture aims to deliver a state-of-the-art, fifth-generation stealth, multirole combat aircraft for the Indian Air Force. The AMCA is the brainchild of the Aeronautical Development Agency to steer this project from the drawing board to the skies established, bringing together all Indian Industries
The AMCA is being engineered to tackle a diverse range of missions, from air supremacy to ground strikes, Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD), and electronic warfare (EW). The aircraft is designed as a 25-tonne, single-seat twin-engine stealth platform. Its design is optimized for a low radar cross-section and the ability to super cruise. A key focus is the incorporation of advanced stealth features to minimize detection by enemy radar. This will be achieved via geometric stealth, shaping the aircraft to deflect radar waves, and potentially the use of radar-absorbing materials. Crucially, the aircraft will also boast a low electromagnetic signature.
The AMCA is expected to fly at a maximum speed of Mach 1.8, will have a maximum range of 3,240 km and a combat range of 1,620 km. Its service ceiling will be 20,000 metres.
It will feature an internal fuel tank with a 6.5-tonne capacity, as well as an internal weapons bay. It will be capable to carry 1,500 kg internally and 5,500 kg externally, on a total of 14 hardpoints. The internal weapons bay is designed to carry up to four long-range air-to-air missiles or a variety of precision-guided munitions. It is expected to be armed with a 23 mm Gsh-23 cannon
The AMCA project is planned in two phases: Mark 1 and Mark 2. The Mark 1 will feature fifth-generation technologies and a US-built GE414 engine. The Mark 2 will then take things up a notch, incorporating sixth-generation technology upgrades and a more powerful, indigenously developed 110KN engine. Other anticipated features include a diverter less supersonic inlet to manage airflow to the engines, and a serpentine air intake duct to shield the engines from radar emissions. The AMCA may also have optionally crewed capabilities, directed energy weapons, and the ability to control Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) and swarm drones.
The AMCA represents India’s ambition to join the select few nations with their own fifth generation fighter aircraft. First flight is currently slated for late 2028; five prototypes are planned, while mass production s expected to get underway by 2035. The IAF is planning to procure at least 125 AMCA aircraft in Mark 1 and Mark 2 configurations. As the project gathers momentum, the AMCA promises to be a game-changer for India’s air power capabilities, giving the country a real edge in the skies.
Photos by J. Roukoz