NEW DELHI: India has officially kicked off its ambitious journey to develop a next-generation stealth fighter jet, inviting domestic aerospace companies to take part in building prototypes for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) — a landmark project aimed at bolstering India’s self-reliance in defense technology.
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), which operates under the Ministry of Defence, has released an Expression of Interest (EOI) to shortlist Indian firms for the construction of five AMCA prototypes. The cutting-edge, twin-engine fifth-generation jet is designed with stealth and deep-strike capabilities, positioning it as a vital asset for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The AMCA is set to serve alongside the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft and eventually phase out India’s aging fighter fleets, thereby reducing the country’s reliance on foreign military suppliers.
According to the EOI, only Indian-owned and controlled companies are eligible to apply — whether independently, as joint ventures, or as part of a consortium. Applicants must demonstrate proven expertise in aerospace or defense manufacturing. Additionally, the selected partner will be expected to develop infrastructure capable of transitioning into full-scale production post-prototype stage.
“This initiative goes beyond prototype development,” the ADA stated. “We’re looking to identify a long-term industrial partner that can absorb the AMCA’s design and prepare for future mass production.”
The agency has outlined a firm schedule: all development, testing, and certification must be completed within eight years from the signing of the contract.
As a key pillar of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) defense strategy, the AMCA is envisioned to rival global fifth-generation fighters like the U.S. F-35 and China’s J-20, with features including stealth technology, advanced avionics, and supercruise capability.