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Why in the News?
The first prototype of India’s fifth-generation fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is expected to be rolled out by late 2026 or early 2027, while the Light Combat Aircraft-Mk2 (LCA-Mk2) prototype, a more advanced and larger version of the LCA, is anticipated by the end of 2025, according to officials from the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). These two programs play a crucial role in the modernization plans of the Indian Air Force (IAF), which currently has 31 fighter squadrons, below the required strength.
Development of LCA-Mk2
Jitendra J. Jadhav, Director-General of ADA, provided updates on the LCA-Mk2 development, stating: The project is in an advanced stage, with airframe assembly underway.
The roll-out is expected by the end of 2025.
The first test flight is scheduled for early 2026.
Induction into the IAF is planned from 2028-29.
The LCA-Mk2 will feature 11 weapon stations and be equipped with indigenous weaponry, making it a formidable addition to the IAF’s fleet.
Development Phase of AMCA
The AMCA program was sanctioned by the government in April 2024.
The development phase has begun, with expectations for its first test flight by the end of 2028.
Certification is targeted for 2032, with full induction into the IAF by 2034.
The AMCA is being designed as a fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft (FGFA).
Key Features of AMCA
According to Krishna Rajendra Neeli, Outstanding Scientist and Officiating Project Director of the AMCA programme:
The aircraft will have an internal armament capacity of 1.5 tonnes.
It can also carry external weapons in a non-stealth mode.
Five prototypes will be produced for testing and development.
Initial production will focus on four aircraft per year, with plans to ramp up once the manufacturing process stabilizes.
Strategic Importance and Challenges
The development of LCA-Mk2 and AMCA comes at a crucial time, as India faces delays in new aircraft inductions while China and Pakistan continue rapid modernization of their fighter fleets. The IAF is under pressure to speed up its procurement and induction processes to maintain a strong defensive and offensive capability.
Conclusion
The introduction of the LCA-Mk2 and AMCA is set to significantly enhance India's indigenous defense capabilities. With ambitious timelines and a focus on self-reliance in military aviation, these aircraft will strengthen India's strategic and technological prowess in the coming decade. The success of these projects will be pivotal in ensuring a modernized and capable IAF that can effectively counter regional security threats.