In a significant move to bolster its defense capabilities, India has approved the development of its first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, known as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This decision comes in the wake of escalating military tensions with neighboring Pakistan, following a recent four-day conflict that saw extensive aerial engagements between the two nuclear-armed nations.

Strategic Implications of the AMCA Program

The AMCA program, spearheaded by India’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), aims to develop a twin-engine, all-weather stealth multirole combat aircraft. The aircraft is designed to perform a variety of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and electronic warfare, with advanced features such as low radar cross-section and supercruise capability. The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to induct seven squadrons of the AMCA, with mass production expected to commence by 2034 .

This initiative is seen as a response to the growing military capabilities of neighboring countries, particularly China’s advancements in stealth technology. The AMCA is expected to replace older aircraft in the IAF’s fleet, which currently operates below its sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons .

Recent Aerial Clashes with Pakistan

The approval of the AMCA program coincides with heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. In early May 2025, both countries engaged in a series of aerial skirmishes, marking the first large-scale use of drones in their military confrontations. Pakistan’s Air Force (PAF) reported shooting down six Indian aircraft, including three Rafale jets, one Su-30MKI, and one MiG-29 Fulcrum

In response, India launched missile strikes into Pakistani-controlled territory, targeting what it described as militant infrastructure linked to a recent terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. However, several civilian areas, including mosques and educational facilities, were reportedly hit, resulting in at least 31 fatalities .

Economic and Strategic Considerations

The AMCA program is not only a technological endeavor but also a strategic economic initiative. India plans to collaborate with both private and state-owned defense firms for the development of the stealth fighter, aiming to reduce dependence on Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), which has faced criticism for delays in delivering the Tejas aircraft due to supply chain issues .

The project’s execution phase is expected to commence soon, with the Aeronautical Development Agency inviting initial interest from defense firms for developing a prototype of the warplane. The completion of the AMCA is projected for 2035, positioning India among the select few nations capable of designing and producing next-generation combat aircraft .

Conclusion

India’s approval of the AMCA program underscores its commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities amid regional security challenges. As the development progresses, the AMCA is poised to play a pivotal role in modernizing India’s air force and asserting its technological prowess in the global defense arena.