India Launches Stealth Fighter Program Amid Tensions
India Launches Stealth Fighter Program Amid Tensions
India has given the green light to develop its stealth fighter aircraft to strengthen its air force and national defense. This decision comes as tensions with Pakistan increase, with both countries working to modernize their military forces.
India Launches Stealth Fighter Program Amid Tensions
India has given the green light to develop its stealth fighter aircraft to strengthen its air force and national defense. This decision comes as tensions with Pakistan increase, with both countries working to modernize their military forces.
India launches indigenous stealth fighter jet program
Aircraft named Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
Project cost expected to exceed $5 billion
Aimed at countering growing threats from China and Pakistan
Features 5th-generation capabilities including stealth, supercruise, and AI-based warfare systems
The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is India’s most ambitious defense aviation project to date. Spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the AMCA will:
Be a 5th-generation stealth multirole fighter
Feature low radar visibility for survivability in contested airspaces
Include artificial intelligence (AI), sensor fusion, and advanced electronic warfare systems
Replace aging aircraft like the MiG-29 and Mirage 2000
According to officials, prototype production will begin in 2026, with the first flight expected by 2028.
The timing of the approval is strategically significant, given the evolving geopolitical environment:
Pakistan recently received 30 J-35A stealth jets from China, a major upgrade to its air fleet
China’s growing military footprint in the Indian Ocean Region and near the Ladakh border
Rising border skirmishes and diplomatic standoffs
The AMCA program is viewed as a direct response to these developments, ensuring that India retains technological and tactical superiority.
“The AMCA is a symbol of self-reliance and strategic readiness. It will elevate India into the elite club of nations with 5th-generation aircraft capabilities.”
“Our goal is to deliver a combat-proven platform that is not only indigenous but future-ready.”
