AMCA Fighter Jet

AMCA Fighter Jet : Recently, the execution model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project was approved, marking a significant step towards fast-tracking the development of India’s first fifth-generation stealth fighter jet.

• About AMCA: AMCA is the only fifth-generation fighter aircraft (FGFA) currently under development in India.

o It represents a major leap in indigenous defence aviation capabilities.

o Designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a state-owned enterprise.

o Aircraft Specifications: Twin-engine, 25-tonne class aircraft.

ü Maximum speed: Approx. 2,600 km/h (Mach 2.15).

ü Combat range: 1,620 km.

ü Capable of carrying 6,500 kg of weapons (including 1.5 tonnes internally).

o Designed for multi-role missions including: Air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD) and Electronic warfare.

o Combat Edge – "First Look, First Kill": Designed on the principle of detecting and engaging the enemy first.

o Engine Variants:

ü AMCA Mk1: Will use the 90 kN-class GE414 engine sourced from the US.

ü AMCA Mk2: Will be powered by an advanced 110 kN engine under development by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment in collaboration with a foreign defence partner.