HAL AMCA

The AMCA programme, earlier known as the Medium Combat Aircraft (MCA) programme, is an Indian programme to develop a fifth-generation combat aircraft. It began as a parallel programme to the Indo-Russia Sukhoi/HAL FGFA.{{cite news|last1=Rao|first1=Radhakrishna|title=India reveals plan to develop indigenous medium fighter|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/10/06/316782/india-reveals-plan-to-develop-indigenous-medium-fighter.html|work=Flight International|date=6 October 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090210035617/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/10/06/316782/india-reveals-plan-to-develop-indigenous-medium-fighter.html|archive-date=10 February 2009}} The AMCA programme was launched in 2010. Although envisioned as a 20-tonne class fighter earlier, now AMCA is 25-tonne class fighter.

In April 2010, the Indian Air Force issued an Air Staff Qualitative Requirement (ASQR) for the AMCA. A feasibility study was launched in October 2010 after a fund allocation of {{INRConvert|90|c|lk=on|year=2010}} by the Defence Ministry. In November, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) sought an additional funding of {{INRConvert|9000|c|year=2010}} for the development of two technology demonstrators and seven prototypes. By the time, the first flight was expected in 2017.

File:AMCA_model_at_Aero_India_2013_(cropped).jpg

The first scaled demonstration of a 1:8 scale model was unveiled at the 2013 edition of Aero India. The Project Definition and Preliminary Design phase was completed by February 2014 while Engineering Technology & Manufacturing Development (ETMD) phase begun in January 2014. By the time the first flight schedule was pushed back to 2018.

From November 2013 to December 2014, 9 design configurations of AMCA, starting from 3B-01 to 3B-09, were studied using CAD, low-speed and high-speed wind tunnel testing, and radar cross section (RCS) testing at the Calspan Wind Tunnel. By the end of 2014, configuration 3B-09 was chosen. Also, the initial funding for feasibility studies were utilised and a further {{INRConvert|4000|c|year=2014}} funding was expected for 3 to 4 prototypes with a first flight target of 2020-21.{{cite report|title=30th Audit report ADA|url=http://164.100.47.191/paperlaidfiles/DEFENCE/ADA-30th%20AR_Eng.pdf}}{{cite news |last=Jha |first=Saurav |date=27 December 2014 |title=A note on India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project |url=https://www.news18.com/blogs/india/saurav-jha/a-note-on-indias-advanced-medium-combat-aircraft-amca-project-10879-748657.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602212419/https://www.news18.com/blogs/india/saurav-jha/a-note-on-indias-advanced-medium-combat-aircraft-amca-project-10879-748657.html |archive-date=2 June 2021 |access-date=29 May 2021 |website=News 18}}

Meanwhile, the Indian Navy sought details of the project for a naval variant in March 2013. The proposed variant is referred to as NAMCA or AMCA-N. The naval requirements were officially sent on 7 September 2015 and the aircraft would equip their future IAC-2.

In Aero India 2015, the basic design configuration of AMCA was finalized. Major technologies under development at the time were stealth, thrust vectoring and super cruise. DRDO plans to finalise a partner within six months for a 110kN thrust-class engine. Meanwhile, Russia was collaborating for development of thrust vectoring.{{cite web |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=20 February 2015 |title=Development of indigenous AMCA on track |url=http://m.thehindu.com/news/national/development-of-indigenous-amca-on-track/article6913681.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220104201/http://m.thehindu.com/news/national/development-of-indigenous-amca-on-track/article6913681.ece/ |archive-date=20 February 2015 |access-date=20 February 2015 |work=The Hindu}} The design was accepted by IAF in 2016.{{cite report |title=31st ADA Audit Report |url=https://www.ada.gov.in/images/Annual%20Report%202015-16.pdf}}

In 2018, ADA received additional funding of {{INRConvert|447|c|year=2018}} for the detailed design phase (DDP). By 2019, the programme faced multiple delays while India pulled out from the Indo-Russian FGFA development project which was for a different weight category. AMCA became the "first preference" of the IAF.{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=Chetan |date=23 February 2019 |title=Aero India 2019: HAL-developed Advanced Medium {{sic|nolink=y|Aicraft}} will be IAF's 1st option for fifth-gen fighter |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/hal-developed-advanced-medium-aicraft-will-be-iafs-1st-option-for-fifth-gen-fighter/articleshow/68118701.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230717084812/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/hal-developed-advanced-medium-aicraft-will-be-iafs-1st-option-for-fifth-gen-fighter/articleshow/68118701.cms |archive-date=17 July 2023 |access-date=30 March 2019 |newspaper=Times of India}}

File:AMCA model displayed during Aero India 2021.jpg]]

As of 2022, after multiple delays, the Ministry of Defence was seeking approval of from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the prototype development phase. Again, the timeline of first flight by 2020 (and production by 2025) was shifted to 2026.

The design work was completed in 2023, and approval for the {{INRConvert|15000|c|year=2024}} project for prototype development was received from CCS in March 2024.{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2024-03-07 |title=5th generation fighter jet project gets Cabinet Committee on Security approval |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ccs-approves-development-of-amca-indias-fifth-gen-fighter/article67926162.ece |access-date=2024-03-08 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}} The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) expects to roll out the first prototype in three years and the first flight in one to one and (a) half years after that".{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2022-10-28 |title=Fifth gen fighter AMCA can be rolled out in three years after project sanction: scientists |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/fifth-gen-fighter-amca-can-be-rolled-out-in-three-years-after-project-sanction-scientists/article66066386.ece |access-date=2023-01-29 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=28 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221028213849/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/fifth-gen-fighter-amca-can-be-rolled-out-in-three-years-after-project-sanction-scientists/article66066386.ece |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Kadidal |first=Akhil |date=19 October 2022 |title=Defexpo 2022: AMCA ready to be rolled out in three years if approved |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/defexpo-2022-amca-ready-to-be-rolled-out-in-three-years-if-approved |access-date=2023-01-29 |website=Janes.com |language=en |archive-date=19 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221019174659/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/defexpo-2022-amca-ready-to-be-rolled-out-in-three-years-if-approved |url-status=live }} Total 5 prototypes are to be built.{{Cite news |last=Dubey |first=Ajit |date=7 March 2024 |title=India clears project to develop AMCA 5th generation stealth fighter aircraft |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/india-clears-project-to-develop-amca-5th-generation-stealth-fighter-aircraft20240307192045/ |access-date=7 March 2024 |work=ANI}}{{Cite web |date=2024-03-08 |title=Fifth-gen fighter AMCA project gets CCS nod |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/fifth-gen-fighter-amca-project-gets-ccs-nod-9202191/ |access-date=2024-03-08 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}} The first flight is expected in late 2028. The first three prototypes will carry out developmental flight trials, whereas the next two will focus on weapon trials. The prototype will be rolled out at an interval of 8-9 months.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-27 |title=HAL Plans 8-9 Month Prototype Rollout to Fast-Track AMCA Development |url=https://defence.in/threads/hal-plans-8-9-month-prototype-rollout-to-fast-track-amca-development.8674/ |access-date=2024-07-28 |website=Defence.in |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2024-07-02 |title=Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft prototype expected by 2028-29 |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/advanced-medium-combat-aircraft-prototype-expected-by-2028-29/article68360061.ece?_gl=1*dgtalp*_ga*YW1wLTJobW5wV0NtNjJKNWpDd1VVWVlSRmZXLVpvSGlCRUh3aVMybUpVNDNpenRVTmxneEMxTllTS2hyXzZFT2VYUEE.*_ga_MHCVDGHV0S*MTcyNjk0MTEzMC42My4xLjE3MjY5NDExMzEuMC4wLjA. |access-date=2024-09-21 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) consisting of ADA, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and a private company is being formed for the development and production of AMCA.{{Cite news |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=2024-03-08 |title=Big gain for IAF: Govt clears next-gen fighter prototypes and development |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/big-gain-for-iaf-govt-clears-next-gen-fighter-prototypes-and-development/articleshow/108309156.cms |access-date=2024-03-09 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}

At the Aero India 2025, a full-scale engineering model of the AMCA was publicly demonstrated for the first time.{{Cite web |date=2025-02-09 |title=India unveils full-scale advanced aircraft model at Aero India in Bengaluru |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/aero-india-2025-amca-full-scale-advanced-combat-aircraft-model-bengaluru-2677219-2025-02-09 |access-date=2025-02-09 |website=India Today |language=en}} As revealed during the event, ADA has laid out a 10-year development roadmap for the rollout of five prototypes after the full-scale engineering development phase began in April 2024. The prototype roll out is planned by late 2026 or early 2027, followed by first flight in 2028, certification by 2032 and induction in 2034. The timeline details was provided by Krishna Rajendra Neeli, the Project Director of the AMCA programme. Each prototype will cost {{INRConvert|1000|c|year=20255}}. The CCS mentioned that any cost overruns during the development should be reported directly to CCS instead of the Defence Ministry.{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2025-02-10 |title=First LCA-Mk2 prototype likely to roll out by end of year, AMCA by early 2027 |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/first-lca-mk2-prototype-likely-to-roll-out-by-end-of-year-amca-by-early-2027/article69203857.ece |access-date=2025-02-12 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web |date=2025-02-11 |title=India’s stealth fighter jet steals Aero India show; who’ll make it? |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/indias-stealth-fighter-jet-steals-aero-india-show-wholl-make-it-2678229-2025-02-11 |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=India Today |language=en}}

It was also reported that the government is yet to decide the production partner for the aircraft since ADA has proposed to hand over the responsibility to private sector companies rather that HAL in view of the company's "not-so-great delivery track-record". Multiple meetings had been held and HAL pushed for an additional assembly-line dedicated to AMCA if required. Meanwhile, the government has shifted to an "industry partnership model" instead of the initial plans for SPV. ADA's push for changing the production partner is to avoid any further delays following setbacks from development funding and lack of clearance from the US government for license production of engines. The private sector partner would be responsible for development, production and lifetime maintenance of the jet.

In March 2025, it was reported that the Ministry of Defence formed a panel to examine increasing the role of private sector companies in the development of the AMCA.{{Cite web |date=3 March 2025 |title=Private sector to play a major role in development of India's fifth-generation AMCA fighter jet? |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/defence/2025/03/03/private-sector-to-play-a-major-role-in-development-of-indias-fifth-generation-amca-fighter-jet.html |access-date=4 March 2025 |website=The Week}} As of 17 March 2025, reports suggested that another top level committee was evaluating a "clear-cut strategy and production-cum-business model" to accelerate the development of Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The committee is chaired by the Defence Secretary and its members include Secretary of Defence Production, Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal SP Dharkar and top officials from Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The committee, tasked to devise a plan to "shrink timelines" to get AMCA from drawing board to air as well as the high thrust indigenous engine development, is expected to be its report submitted in April.{{Cite news |date=2025-03-17 |title=India to step on the gas for indigenous 5th gen fighter |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-to-step-on-the-gas-for-indigenous-5th-gen-fighter/articleshow/119090404.cms |access-date=2025-03-19 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite news |date=2025-03-17 |title=India's 5th gen stealth fighter jet set to soar ahead of Pakistan as China preps for 6th gen aircraft |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indias-5th-gen-stealth-fighter-jet-set-to-soar-ahead-of-pakistan-as-china-preps-for-6th-gen-aircrafts/articleshow/119105500.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2025-03-19 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}{{Cite news |last=Mukherjee |first=Vasudha |date=17 March 2025 |title=India fast-tracks 5th gen AMCA fighter jet amid rising security concerns |url=https://www.business-standard.com/external-affairs-defence-security/news/indian-air-force-5th-gen-amca-stealth-fighter-jet-development-acceleration-125031700410_1.html |access-date=17 March 2025 |work=Business Standard}}

As of December 2014, ADA had plans to issue an request for proposal (RfP) to six original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), by April 2015, for co-development of an afterburning low-bypass turbofan of the 110kN thrust class. As of then, AMCA had a requirement of 105kN thrust engines against its maximum MTOW of 24.2 tonnes.

As per a Government statement in the Rajya Sabha during the Winter Session 2021, there is a proposal to jointly develop the engine for AMCA with the help of foreign partner using the know how from the Kaveri engine development programme.{{Cite web|last=Punj|first=Vivek|date=2021-11-29|title=HAL to manufacture first four light utility helicopters by 2022-23: Centre|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/hal-to-manufacture-first-four-light-utility-helicopters-by-2022-23-centre-11638200029488.html|url-status=live|access-date=2021-11-30|website=Mint|language=en|archive-date=30 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230330031218/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/hal-to-manufacture-first-four-light-utility-helicopters-by-2022-23-centre-11638200029488.html}}

On 15 July 2023, India and France agreed to collaborate for the joint development of a combat aircraft engine, which would power the Mark-2 variant of AMCA as part of the Horizon 2047 document for India-France strategic partnership. A roadmap for this project will be prepared between French firm Safran and India’s DRDO before the end of 2023.{{cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2023-07-15 |title=India, France to jointly develop engine to power AMCA fighter |url=https://theprint.in/defence/india-france-to-jointy-develop-engine-to-power-amca-fighter-ink-mou-for-more-scorpenes/1670623/ |website=THE PRINT}}{{Cite news |date=2023-07-15 |title=

CONFIRMED: India and France to jointly develop a new high thrust jet engine for Indian 5th Gen Stealth Jet AMCA Mk2|work=India's growing Military power |url=https://theigmp.org/india-and-france-to-jointly-develop-a-new-high-thrust-jet-engine-for-indian-5th-gen-stealth-jet-amca-mk2/ |access-date=2023-07-17}}

On 18 November 2023, Dr. Samir V. Kamat of DRDO announced that the United States has provided the necessary permits, opening the door for GE Aerospace and HAL to jointly produce the General Electric F414 engine in India for HAL Tejas Mark 2 and for the first two squadrons of AMCA.{{Cite news |date=2023-11-18 |title=All US clearances received: HAL, GE to produce jet engines for LCA Mark2, AMCA fighter jets in India |work=The Economic Times |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/all-us-clearances-received-hal-ge-to-produce-jet-engines-for-lca-mark2-amca-fighter-jets-in-india/articleshow/105314974.cms |access-date=2023-11-18 |issn=0013-0389}}{{Cite news |date=2022-10-21 |title=

General Electric F414 engine to be Made in India with 100% technology transfer, but without IPR; To be used for Tejas Mk2 and AMCA Mk1|work=India's growing Military power |url=https://theigmp.org/general-electric-f414-engine-to-be-made-in-india-with-100-technology-transfer-but-without-ipr-to-be-used-for-tejas-mk2-and-amca-mk1/ |access-date=2022-10-27}}

As of September 2024, foreign firms who offered joint venture development includes the US-origin General Electric, UK-origin Rolls-Royce and French-origin Safran. The latter two has also offered 100% intellectual property (IP) of engine design. Safran and Rolls-Royce have also received clearance from their respective countries for the engine development.{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2024-01-26 |title=Jet engine deal with France will give 100% access to technology, says Indian envoy |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/jet-engine-deal-with-france-will-give-100-access-to-technology-says-indian-envoy/article67780629.ece/ |access-date=2024-09-22 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web |last=Choudhary |first=Puran |date=2024-09-22 |title=India is 10-15 years behind most countries in traditional technologies, says DRDO chief |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2024/Sep/22/india-is-10-15-years-behind-most-countries-in-traditional-technologies-says-drdo-chief |access-date=2024-09-22 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}} Reportedly, Safran is the frontrunner for the deal and discussions are underway among Safran, ADA and GTRE as of October 2024. In October 2024, Safran and HAL also signed an MoU to develop industrial cooperation in forging parts’ manufacturing for commercial engines including those. HAL, in its Bangalore facility would supple engine parts of CFM International LEAP to Safran Aircraft Engines.{{Cite web |last=Deshpande |first=Smruti |date=2024-10-15 |title=France's Safran, frontrunner to power 5th-gen fighter AMCA, expands India operations |url=https://theprint.in/defence/frances-safran-frontrunner-to-power-5th-gen-fighter-amca-expands-india-operations/2312842/ |access-date=2024-10-15 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2023-10-26 |title=Safran and HAL sign MoU to develop industrial cooperation in commercial engines parts manufacturing |url=https://www.safran-group.com/pressroom/safran-and-hal-sign-mou-develop-industrial-cooperation-commercial-engines-parts-manufacturing-2023-10-26 |access-date=2025-03-14 |website=Safran |language=en}}

On 18 February 2025, it was also reported that while France was in an advanced stages of talks with India, Rolls-Royce Holdings was in talks with India for the engine co-development programme for AMCA. They has offered "to co-develop and co-design, allowing India to own the Intellectual Property (IP) in India, for India for use in current as well as future programmes". They had completed the first phase of discussions for the development.{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2025-02-17 |title=Offering to co-develop and co-design jet engine, allowing India to own the IP: Rolls Royce |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/offering-to-co-develop-and-co-design-jet-engine-allowing-india-to-own-the-ip-rolls-royce/article69230999.ece |access-date=2025-03-14 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}

In an interview given in 2020, the then Air Force Chief R. K. S. Bhadauria stated that "The planning process is already underway for combat systems like optionally manned sixth generation technologies, smart wingman concept, swarm drones, long persistent HALE (High-Altitude Long Endurance) platforms and hypersonic weapons, among others.{{Cite web |last=Krishnan M |first=Anantha |date=8 October 2020 |title=Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria interview: 'Indigenisation essential for strategic development' |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/india/2020/10/08/indigenisation-is-essential-for-true-strategic-development--iaf-.html |access-date=2023-01-29 |website=www.onmanorama.com |archive-date=5 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201105221639/https://www.onmanorama.com/news/nation/2020/10/08/indigenisation-is-essential-for-true-strategic-development--iaf-.html |url-status=live }} He also added that it is imperative to incorporate such advanced technologies to keep AMCA relevant.

The AMCA is a twin-engine, stealth supersonic multi-role fighter designed for the IAF. At present, the AMCA is planned as a fifth generation fighter but will integrate emerging, best-of-breed sixth-generation technologies over time.{{cite news |date=6 October 2020 |title=India's 5th-Gen Fighter Jet 'AMCA' Will Have 6th-Gen Technology – Indian Air Force |website=Eurasian Times |url=https://eurasiantimes.com/indias-5th-gen-fighter-jet-amca-will-have-6th-gen-technology-indian-air-force/ |url-status=live |access-date=19 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210608011039/https://eurasiantimes.com/indias-5th-gen-fighter-jet-amca-will-have-6th-gen-technology-indian-air-force/ |archive-date=8 June 2021}} The AMCA would be the first fifth generation fighter to enter service with the Indian Air Force.{{cite news |last=Gady |first=Franz-Stefan |date=13 April 2018 |title=India Pulls out of Joint Stealth Fighter Project With Russia |publisher=The Diplomat |url=https://thediplomat.com/2018/04/india-pulls-out-of-joint-stealth-fighter-project-with-russia/ |url-status=live |access-date=4 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180426075935/https://thediplomat.com/2018/04/india-pulls-out-of-joint-stealth-fighter-project-with-russia/ |archive-date=26 April 2018}}{{cite news |last=Singh |first=Mayank |date=5 February 2021 |title=India plans to roll out fifth-generation fighters by 2024 |publisher=New Indian Express |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2021/feb/05/india-plans-to-roll-out-fifth-generation-fightersby-2024-2259979.html |url-status=live |access-date=4 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604084003/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2021/feb/05/india-plans-to-roll-out-fifth-generation-fightersby-2024-2259979.html |archive-date=4 June 2021}}

The AMCA is designed with shoulder mounted diamond shaped trapezoidal wings, a profile with substantial area-ruling to reduce drag at transonic speeds, and a stabilator V-tail with large fuselage mounted tail-wing.{{cite web |author=Iyer-Mitra |first1=Abhijit |last2=Das |first2=Pushan |title=The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft:A Technical Analysis |url=http://dhqxnzzajv69c.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/IssueBrief_105.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210119215112/https://www.orfonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/IssueBrief_105.pdf |archive-date=19 January 2021 |access-date=15 January 2016 |work=Observer Research Foundation}} Flight control surfaces include leading and trailing-edge flaps, ailerons, rudders on the canted vertical stabilizers, and all-moving tailplanes; these surfaces also serve as air brakes. The cockpit features a single seat configuration which is placed high, near the air intakes and wings of the aircraft to provide good visibility to the pilot with a single bubble canopy. A leading-edge root extension (LERX), which is a small fillet, is situated on the front section of the intake and wings of the aircraft. It has a typically roughly rectangular shape, running forward from the leading edge of the wing root to a point along the fuselage. The aircraft features a tricycle landing gear configuration. The weapons bay is placed on the underside of the fuselage between the nose and main landing gear. The AMCA is designed to produce a very small radar cross-section, to accomplish this it features "S-shaped" air-intakes to reduce radar exposure to the fan blade which increases stealth, uses an internal weapons bay and features the use of composites and other materials. The flight control surfaces are controlled by a central management computer system. The AMCA will have some sixth generation characteristics such as an optionally crewed, directed energy weapons, capable of controlling UCAVs, and swarm drones.{{Cite web |last=Krishnan M |first=Anantha |date=5 February 2020 |title=AMCA could fly undetected during dangerous missions |url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2020/02/05/amca-could-fly-undetected-during-dangerous-missions.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200206075736/https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2020/02/05/amca-could-fly-undetected-during-dangerous-missions.html |archive-date=6 February 2020 |access-date=2020-02-06 |website=Onmanorama |language=en}}

The AMCA design has inherent radar stealth, achieved through twin-tail layout, platform edge alignment and serration, body conformal antenna and low intercept radar, diverterless supersonic inlet (DSI) with serpentine ducts which conceal engine fan blades, internal weapons bay and extensive use of composites in airframe.{{cite news |last=Chandra |first=Atul |date=9 February 2021 |title=New Delhi forges ahead with new naval fighter, AMCA |publisher=Flight Global |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/new-delhi-forges-ahead-with-new-naval-fighter-amca/142338.article |url-status=live |access-date=4 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604203653/https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/new-delhi-forges-ahead-with-new-naval-fighter-amca/142338.article |archive-date=4 June 2021}} According to Janes Information Services quoting ADA, the airframe of AMCA will have 38–40% composite. As of October 2022, designers are still in the process of refining the radar deflection capability of AMCA.{{Cite web |last=Kadidal |first=Akhil |date=19 October 2022 |title=Defexpo 2022: AMCA ready to be rolled out in three years if approved |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/defexpo-2022-amca-ready-to-be-rolled-out-in-three-years-if-approved |access-date=2022-10-19 |website=Janes |language=en |archive-date=19 October 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221019174659/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/defexpo-2022-amca-ready-to-be-rolled-out-in-three-years-if-approved |url-status=live }} It will also use radar-absorbent materials wherever necessary.{{Cite web |last=Sinha |first=Amartya |date=16 May 2023 |title=Indigenous combat jets and Kaveri turbofan engine: All About IAF's new aerospace plan |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indigenous-combat-jets-and-kaveri-turbofan-engine-all-about-iafs-new-aerospace-plan-2380107-2023-05-16 |access-date=2023-12-29 |website=India Today |language=en}}

On November 26, 2024, IIT Kanpur introduced Anālakṣhya, a Meta-material Surface Cloaking System (MSCS) for multi-spectral camouflage. The Meta-material Microwave Absorber improves stealth capabilities against Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imaging by wave absorption across a wide spectrum. Additionally, it provides great defense against radar-guided missiles. From 2019 to 2024, it was tested in both lab and field settings under various circumstances. Meta Tattva Systems is the licensee of the technology for industrial production and is currently under acquisition by the Indian Armed Forces. This technology is of interest to DRDO for AMCA development.{{Cite news |last=Shukla |first=Ajai |date=27 November 2024 |title=IIT Kanpur develops revolutionary tech to make aircraft invisible to radar |url=https://www.business-standard.com/external-affairs-defence-security/news/iit-kanpur-develops-revolutionary-tech-to-make-aircraft-invisible-to-radar-124112701035_1.html |access-date=28 November 2024 |work=Business Standard}}{{Cite web |date=2024-11-28 |title=IIT Kanpur Unveils Groundbreaking Revolutionary Camouflage Technology for Defence |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-iit-kanpur-unveils-groundbreaking-revolutionary-camouflage-technology-for-defence-3678988/ |access-date=2024-11-28 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}

The AMCA is expected to have distributed passive sensors with Artificial intelligence (AI) assisted multi-sensor data fusion to increase situational awareness and to work in tandem with the advanced electronic warfare (EW) suite onboard AMCA.{{cite news |last=Iyer-Mitra |first=Abhijit |date=11 October 2019 |title=Air Chief Bhadauria's focus on homegrown AMCA shows IAF learnt nothing from Tejas failure |publisher=The Print |url=https://theprint.in/opinion/air-chief-rakesh-bhadauria-indigenous-amca-iaf-lca-tejas-aircraft/303718/ |url-status=live |access-date=4 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604115043/https://theprint.in/opinion/air-chief-rakesh-bhadauria-indigenous-amca-iaf-lca-tejas-aircraft/303718/ |archive-date=4 June 2021}}{{cite news |last=Dar |first=Younis |date=12 April 2021 |title=HAL AMCA: Why India Needs Its Own Lockheed-Martin To Develop 5th-Gen, Stealth Fighter Aircraft? |publisher=EurAsian Times |url=https://eurasiantimes.com/hal-amca-why-india-needs-its-own-lockheed-martin-to-develop-5th-gen-stealth-fighter-aircraft/ |url-status=live |access-date=1 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602215532/https://eurasiantimes.com/hal-amca-why-india-needs-its-own-lockheed-martin-to-develop-5th-gen-stealth-fighter-aircraft/ |archive-date=2 June 2021}} The AMCA has a distributed processing system employing fast processors and smart subsystems.{{cite news|last=Karnozov|first=Vladimir|title=Indian 'Home-Grown' AMCA, An Alternative To FGFA|url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/paris-air-show/2013-06-13/indian-home-grown-amca-alternative-fgfa|access-date=5 December 2013|newspaper=AIN Online|date=13 June 2013|archive-date=11 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131111141502/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/paris-air-show/2013-06-13/indian-home-grown-amca-alternative-fgfa|url-status=live}} The AMCA will also have an integrated vehicle health monitoring system, an onboard condition monitoring system, which works on sensor fusion. Such development for the jet was first reported in 2011.{{cite news |last=Krishnan M |first=Anantha |date=20 February 2019 |title=Aero India: Indigenous stealth fighter to initially use US engines |publisher=The Week |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2019/02/20/aero-india-indigenous-stealth-fighter-engine.html |url-status=live |access-date=9 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220061106/https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2019/02/20/aero-india-indigenous-stealth-fighter-engine.html |archive-date=20 February 2019}}{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/drdo-developing-onboard-equipment-monitoring-system-for-submarines/article5826308.ece|title=DRDO developing onboard equipment monitoring system for submarines|author=S. Anandan|work=The Hindu|date=19 May 2016|access-date=17 November 2017|archive-date=5 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140705013648/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/drdo-developing-onboard-equipment-monitoring-system-for-submarines/article5826308.ece|url-status=live}} The jet also features an "Electronic Pilot" which will enhance the decision-making capabilities of pilots. This will "enhance situational awareness, identify threats automatically, assist in complex combat scenarios".

AMCA will be equipped with a larger and powerful variant of the Uttam AESA Radar which will use gallium nitride (GaN) technology.{{cite web |date=25 April 2021 |title=Next Generation Radar for AMCA |url=https://alphadefense.in/alpha-exclusive-amca-uttam-gan-aesa/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210606044752/https://alphadefense.in/alpha-exclusive-amca-uttam-gan-aesa/ |archive-date=6 June 2021 |access-date=9 July 2021 |website=Alpha Defence}} It will be mounted on a mechanically steerable mount. The platform will be equipped with a quadruple digital fly-by-optics control system using fibre optic cables to reduce weight, increase the rate of data transfer and reduce electromagnetic interference.

The AMCA will have a glass cockpit equipped with a wide panoramic touchscreen display for enhanced man-machine interaction, a multi function display (MFD) placed in portrait orientation and a wide-angle holographic head-up display (HUD). The AMCA will have hands-on throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) arrangement with right hand on stick and left hand on throttle settings to ease the pilot workload.{{cite news |last=Kappan |first=Rasheed |date=5 February 2021 |title=Aero India 2021: Futuristic Cockpit Simulator a big draw at airshow |publisher=Deccan Herald |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/business/technology/aero-india-2021-futuristic-cockpit-simulator-a-big-draw-at-airshow-947611.html |url-status=live |access-date=1 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602213922/https://www.deccanherald.com/business/technology/aero-india-2021-futuristic-cockpit-simulator-a-big-draw-at-airshow-947611.html |archive-date=2 June 2021}}

The AMCA is to be powered by two afterburning turbofan engines. The plan is to equip General Electric F414 afterburning turbofan engine on AMCA Mark-1,{{Cite news|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2021-09-12|title=LCA-Mk2 to roll out next year, first flight in 2023, says scientist|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lca-mk2-to-roll-out-next-year-first-flight-in-2023-says-scientist/article36419325.ece|access-date=2021-09-14|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=17 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210917072547/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lca-mk2-to-roll-out-next-year-first-flight-in-2023-says-scientist/article36419325.ece|url-status=live}} while a more powerful joint venture (JV) engine is planned for AMCA Mark-2.{{cite news |last=Kaushik |first=Krishn |date=5 February 2021 |title=Tejas done, focus on three other fighter jets: two for IAF, one Navy |publisher=The Indian Express |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/aero-india-2021-tejas-done-focus-on-three-other-fighter-jets-two-for-iaf-one-navy-7175125/ |url-status=live |access-date=1 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210205145054/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/aero-india-2021-tejas-done-focus-on-three-other-fighter-jets-two-for-iaf-one-navy-7175125/ |archive-date=5 February 2021}}

The AMCA features an internal weapons bay for carrying missiles and standoff precision guided munitions in stealthy configuration, while also has provision for external hardpoints for carrying ordinance externally for non-stealthy missions.{{cite news|last1=Perrett|first1=Bradley|last2=Menon|first2=Jay|title=India's AMCA Fighter Targets Mid-2020s First Flight|url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/india-s-amca-fighter-targets-mid-2020s-first-flight|access-date=16 November 2017|work=Aerospace Daily & Defense Report|publisher=Aviation Week|date=23 February 2017|archive-date=16 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171116082701/http://aviationweek.com/defense/india-s-amca-fighter-targets-mid-2020s-first-flight|url-status=live}}{{registration required}}{{cite web |date=13 February 2009 |title=Medium Combat Aircraft |url=http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/media/AeroIndia2009/krishG/Picture+128.jpg.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091023122743/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/media/AeroIndia2009/krishG/Picture+128.jpg.html |archive-date=23 October 2009 |access-date=30 September 2009 |work=MCA Handouts at AI-09 |publisher=Aeronautical Development Agency}} Directed energy weapons are also planned to be equipped on the AMCA.{{Cite news|last=Pubby|first=Manu|title=India looks at a tight deadline to develop next generation fighter jets|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/tight-deadline-for-nextgen-fighters/articleshow/78501010.cms|access-date=2020-10-06|archive-date=6 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201006151230/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/tight-deadline-for-nextgen-fighters/articleshow/78501010.cms|url-status=live}}

;{{IND}}

Indian Air Force – 7 squadrons, 126 units (expected){{Cite web |date=17 July 2022 |title=IAF plans to induct AMCA, LCA along with 114 multirole fighters under Make in India : IAF Chief |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/iaf-plans-to-induct-amca-lca-along-with-114-multirole-fighters-under-make-in-india-iaf-chief20220717151651/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221005074029/https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/iaf-plans-to-induct-amca-lca-along-with-114-multirole-fighters-under-make-in-india-iaf-chief20220717151651/ |archive-date=5 October 2022 |access-date=2022-07-17 |website=ANI News |language=en}}{{cite web |date=8 October 2021 |title=IAF plans to have 125 advanced combat jets |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/iaf-plans-to-have-125-advanced-combat-jets-152029 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211120074126/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/iaf-plans-to-have-125-advanced-combat-jets-152029 |archive-date=20 November 2021 |access-date=20 November 2021 |website=THE TRIBUNE}}

Specifications can vary as the aircraft is still in development. All the information is based on available non-official sources - approximate and preliminary.

{{Aircraft specs

| ref = Jane's All the World's Aircraft,{{cite book|editor1-last=Jackson|editor1-first=Paul|editor2-last=Peacock|editor2-first=Lindsay|editor3-last=Bushell|editor3-first=Susan|editor4-last=Willis|editor4-first=David|editor5-last=Winchester|editor5-first=Jim|title=IHS Jane's All the World's Aircraft: Development & Production|date=2016–2017|location=Couldson|isbn=978-0710631770|page=297|chapter=India}} The Hindu{{cite news |last1=Peri |first1=Dinakar |title=LCA-Mk2 to roll out next year, first flight in 2023, says scientist |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lca-mk2-to-roll-out-next-year-first-flight-in-2023-says-scientist/article36419325.ece |access-date=14 September 2021 |work=The Hindu |date=12 September 2021 |archive-date=17 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210917072547/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/lca-mk2-to-roll-out-next-year-first-flight-in-2023-says-scientist/article36419325.ece |url-status=live }}

| prime units? = met

| crew = 1

| length m = 17.6

| span m = 11.13

| height m = 4.5

| wing area sqm = 55

| wing area note =

| airfoil =

| empty weight kg = 12,000

| empty weight lb =

| empty weight note = (estimated)

| gross weight kg = 18,000

| gross weight lb =

| gross weight note =

| max takeoff weight kg = 25,000

| max takeoff weight lb =

| max takeoff weight note =

| fuel capacity = {{cvt|6500|kg}}

| more general = * Payload: {{cvt|7000|kg}} ― {{cvt|1500|kg}} internal weapons bay and {{cvt|5500|kg}} external stores

| eng1 number = 2

| eng1 name = Modified GE F414 (initial production){{cite web|url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2019/02/20/aero-india-indigenous-stealth-fighter-engine.html|title=Aero India: Indigenous stealth fighter to initially use US engines|publisher=The Week|date=20 February 2019|access-date=9 February 2021|archive-date=20 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220061106/https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2019/02/20/aero-india-indigenous-stealth-fighter-engine.html|url-status=live}}

| eng1 type = afterburning turbofan

| power original =

| thrust original =

| more power =

| max speed kmh = 2600

| max speed mph =

| max speed kts =

| max speed mach = 2.15

| cruise speed mph =

| cruise speed kts =

| never exceed speed kmh =

| never exceed speed mph =

| never exceed speed kts =

| range km =

| range miles =

| range nmi = 1,750

| combat range km = 1620

| combat range miles =

| combat range nmi =

| ferry range km =

| ferry range miles =

| ferry range nmi = 2,875

| ferry range note =

| endurance =

| ceiling m =

| ceiling ft = 65,000

| g limits =

| roll rate =

| climb rate ms =

| climb rate ftmin =

| lift to drag =

| wing loading lb/sqft =

| wing loading note =

| more performance =

| hardpoints = 14 (in non stealth version)

| hardpoint capacity = around 6.5 tons (expected)

| guns = 23 mm GSh-23 cannon

| hardpoint rockets =

| hardpoint missiles =

• Air to air missiles
• Astra IR
• Astra Mark 1
• Astra Mark 2
• Astra Mark 3
• NG-CCM{{cite news |last1=M |first1=Tushar |title=Bharat Dynamics, MBDA missiles deal to help indigenous programs in India |url=https://globaldata.com/bharat-dynamics-mbda-missiles-deal-help-indigenous-programs-india-says-globaldata/ |access-date=25 August 2021 |publisher=Global Data |date=19 August 2021 |archive-date=25 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210825154342/https://globaldata.com/bharat-dynamics-mbda-missiles-deal-help-indigenous-programs-india-says-globaldata/ |url-status=live }}
• Air to ground missiles
• BrahMos NG{{cite news|last1=Krishnan M|first1=Anantha|title=OneIndia Exclusive: Hypersonic, next-gen missiles on BrahMos' wishlist: Mishra|url=https://www.oneindia.com/india/oneindia-exclusive-hypersonic-next-gen-missiles-on-brahmos-wishlist-mishra-1657359.html|work=OneIndia|date=19 February 2015|access-date=12 November 2017|archive-date=4 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221204194114/https://www.oneindia.com/india/oneindia-exclusive-hypersonic-next-gen-missiles-on-brahmos-wishlist-mishra-1657359.html|url-status=live}}
• Rudram series

| hardpoint bombs =

• Laser-guided bomb
• NG-LGB
• Precision-guided munition
• HSLD-100/250/450/500
• DRDO SAAW
• DRDO Glide Bombs

| hardpoint other =

| avionics = * A larger variant of LRDE Uttam AESA Radar

}}

{{Portal|India|Aviation}}

{{Aircontent

|see also=

• Fifth-generation jet fighter
• HAL HLFT-42
• Sukhoi/HAL FGFA (cancelled)
• HAL Tejas
• HAL Tejas Mk2
• HAL TEDBF
• HAL ORCA

|related=

|similar aircraft=

• Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor
• Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II
• Chengdu J-20
• Sukhoi Su-57

|lists=

• List of fighter aircraft
• List of active Indian military aircraft

}}

{{Reflist|group=N}}

{{Reflist}}

{{commons category|HAL AMCA}}

{{Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)}}

{{HAL aircraft}}

{{Stealth aircraft}}

Category:Indian military aircraft procurement programs

Category:Twinjets

Category:Mid-wing aircraft

Category:V-tail aircraft

AMCA

Category:Stealth aircraft

Category:Carrier-based aircraft

Category:Proposed aircraft of India

Category:Proposed military aircraft