India is preparing to build its own next-generation stealth fighter, surpassing Rafale capabilities, marking a shift from buying to indigenous development
Request for Proposals Issued
The Ministry of Defence issued RFPs to three Indian consortia: Larsen & Toubro-Bharat Electronics, Tata Advanced Systems, and Bharat Forge-BEML. These companies must now present technical and industrial proposals
Global Context and Strategic Need
The initiative comes as the US, China, and Russia intensify fifth-generation fighter development. India currently relies on Rafale and Sukhoi aircraft, while AMCA is envisioned as the backbone of future air defense
AMCA Features and Objectives
AMCA, or Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, will be a twin-engine, multi-role stealth fighter. Developed by DRDO and ADA, it aims to evade enemy radar, strike at long ranges, and dominate electronic warfare. Experts see it as a symbol of strategic self-reliance
Why AMCA Surpasses Rafale
Rafale is a 4.5-generation fighter, while AMCA will be a fifth-generation stealth platform. Planned features include stealth design, internal weapons bay, advanced sensor fusion, supercruise, and modern electronic warfare systems, allowing attacks undetected by enemies
Companies Involved
The Defence Ministry shortlisted three groups: Larsen & Toubro-BEL for defense production and electronics expertise, Tata Advanced Systems for aerospace projects, and Bharat Forge-BEML for heavy engineering and defense platforms
Building a Strong Defense Ecosystem
The government intends not just to manufacture aircraft, but also to strengthen the defense ecosystem, fostering collaboration between private and public firms to achieve high-tech self-reliance
