ADVANCED MEDIUM COMBAT AIRCRAFT (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: The Defence Ministry is advancing the project for the indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), and is developing a model to significantly involve the private sector to ensure timely execution.

Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)

• About: The AMCA is designed to be a fifth-generation, medium-weight, multi-role, and twin-engine aircraft.
• Stealth and Configuration: Envisaged as a 25-tonne twin-engine stealth aircraft, it features an internal weapons bay and diverterless supersonic intake, a first-time achievement in India.
• Payload and Fuel Capacity: Intended to carry 1,500 kg of internal payload, 5,500 kg of external payload, and boast a substantial 6,500 kg of internal fuel.
• Government Funding and Production: In 2009, the Central government allocated ₹90 crore for a feasibility study, with an additional ₹447 crore sanctioned later. Production is underway by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
• The first prototype is expected by: 2028-29.
• Two Phases of AMCA: MK1 with the General Electric F414 engine and a Mk2 with a more powerful engine.
• Features of AMCA
• Stealth Capabilities: Equipped with advanced stealth features to evade enemy radar detection, surpassing the size of existing Indian Air Force fighters.
• Fuel and Weapons Configuration: Equipped with a concealed 6.5-tonne internal fuel tank and an internal weapons bay for a variety of weapons, including indigenous ones.
• Engine Specifications: The AMCA Mk1 variant will use the US-built GE414 engine, while the more advanced Mk2 will feature a 110kN engine developed indigenously by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment.
• Advanced Airflow Control: Features like a diverterless supersonic inlet and a serpentine air intake duct contribute to controlling air flow into the engines and shielding them from radar emissions.