India's Ambitious Plan to Develop 5.5 Generation Fighter Jet Prototype by 2028
India is setting its sights high with an ambitious plan to have the first prototype of its indigenous 5.5 generation fighter jet ready by 2028. This project, centered around the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), marks a significant leap in the country’s defense capabilities. Designed to be a stealthy, high-performance aircraft, the AMCA is expected to serve as a cornerstone of India's future air superiority.
The AMCA project, spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with the Indian Air Force (IAF), aims to push the boundaries of modern combat aviation. At approximately 27 tonnes, the AMCA will not only be a heavyweight in terms of its physical mass but also in terms of the firepower it will bring to the battlefield. The aircraft is designed to carry a wide array of weapons in a concealed internal bay, a feature that enhances its stealth capabilities by minimizing radar cross-section. This configuration will allow the AMCA to engage in a variety of missions while remaining undetected by enemy radar systems.
The development of the AMCA is more than just a technological endeavor; it is a strategic imperative for India. With the geopolitical landscape in Asia becoming increasingly complex, India needs an advanced fighter jet that can ensure its air force remains at the cutting edge of aerial warfare. The AMCA, with its 5.5 generation capabilities, is designed to meet these needs. It will likely incorporate advanced avionics, next-generation radar systems, and sophisticated electronic warfare suites, making it a formidable asset in both offensive and defensive operations.
One of the key challenges in the AMCA's development is the production of its engine. The success of the project hinges on the timely development and integration of a powerful engine that can meet the demanding performance requirements of a 5.5 generation fighter jet. If the engine production and other related activities proceed as planned, officials anticipate that the first prototype could be rolled out by 2028. However, developing such an advanced aircraft is a complex task that will require at least six to seven years of rigorous testing and refinement before it can be fully operational.
The AMCA project is not an isolated effort. It is part of a broader strategy by India to enhance its indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities. Alongside the AMCA, the roadmap for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 2 was also discussed in recent meetings. The LCA Mark 2, a 4.5 generation fighter jet, was initially expected to be ready by early 2025. However, its development has faced delays due to funding issues and challenges related to engine procurement. The LCA Mark 2 will be powered by advanced GE-414 engines, which are expected to be a significant upgrade over the GE-404 engines used in the earlier LCA variants.
The AMCA project also involves selecting a development-cum-production partner, which will likely include a consortium of public and private sector companies. This collaborative approach is intended to leverage the strengths of both sectors, ensuring that the AMCA is not only a technological marvel but also a cost-effective solution for India’s defense needs.
Mass production of the AMCA is expected to commence by 2035, by which time the aircraft will likely be at the forefront of India’s air defense strategy. This timeline aligns with India’s broader defense modernization efforts, which aim to equip the IAF with the most advanced technology available.
As India continues to invest in indigenous defense capabilities, the development of the AMCA represents a bold step forward. By 2028, if all goes according to plan, India could very well have one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, capable of holding its own against any global adversary. This project underscores India's commitment to self-reliance in defense, ensuring that its air force remains prepared for the challenges of future warfare.
