AMCA Program Advances: First Prototype construction in progress, rollout set for 2026, and first flight expected by 2028
India’s ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, aimed at developing an indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter, is steadily advancing. This groundbreaking initiative is a key component of the Indian Air Force's (IAF) modernization strategy and a testament to India's commitment to self-reliance in defence technology.
Industry sources have confirmed significant progress in the project, with vital components of the AMCA nearing completion. The construction of the aircraft's airframe, a critical structural element designed to support its advanced systems, is well underway, marking a crucial milestone in the program.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is leading the development of the AMCA in collaboration with private sector partners. This partnership underscores India's focus on fostering a robust domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The program's radar system is also nearing completion. This state-of-the-art sensor, along with the radome and canopy, will be integral to the AMCA’s stealth and operational capabilities. Reports suggest that the radar will be a domestically developed Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) system, likely inspired by the Uttam AESA radar, which is already under development for other Indian fighter jets. AESA technology offers superior target detection, tracking, and electronic warfare capabilities compared to traditional radar systems.
The AMCA is being designed as a twin-engine, single-seat aircraft with advanced stealth features. These include an internal weapons bay and specialized aerodynamic shaping to reduce radar cross-section. The aircraft will serve a versatile role, capable of performing air superiority, ground attack, and electronic warfare missions. It is expected to complement existing platforms like the Su-30MKI and Rafale, providing the IAF with a technological leap into the fifth-generation fighter category.
According to the latest updates, the AMCA is slated for rollout by mid-2026, with its maiden flight scheduled for the second quarter of 2028. This timeline aligns with global trends in the development of fifth-generation fighters, as seen in the United States’ F-35 program, which took nearly 15 years from initiation to first flight.
Although the first flight is still a few years away, the consistent progress in the AMCA program is a promising indicator of its future success. With major components nearing completion and a well-defined timeline for development milestones, the AMCA is set to become a cornerstone of India’s air power strategy. This cutting-edge platform will not only enhance the IAF's operational capabilities but also showcase India's growing expertise in advanced aerospace technology on the global stage.
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