Designed by Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under DRDO .
Full-scale engineering development began in April 2024 .
Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved prototype development in March 2024 .
CCS sanctioned about ₹15,000 crore for the project.
Three pre-selected industrial groups: Tata Advanced Systems (alone), L&T–BEL consortium , Bharat Forge + BEML + Data Patterns consortium.
HAL excluded from shortlist for prototype development in February 2026 .
RFP (Request for Proposal) expected by June 2026 .
First prototype roll-out: late 2026 or early 2027 .
First flight: targeted for 2028 .
Serial production: by 2035 .
Induction into IAF: mid-2030s .
Co-developing 120 kN-class turbofan engine with Safran (France) for AMCA Mk-2 variant.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the AMCA?
A: AMCA stands for Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. It is India’s own fifth-generation stealth fighter jet. It can fight other planes and attack ground targets. The Indian Air Force and Navy will use it.
Q2: Who is designing the AMCA?
A: The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) designs the AMCA. ADA works under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Q3: When will the first AMCA prototype fly?
A: The first flight is targeted for 2028. The prototype will roll out of the factory in late 2026 or early 2027.
Q4: Why was HAL excluded from the AMCA prototype manufacturing?
A: HAL was excluded from the shortlist in February 2026 because the government wants private companies to lead the prototype development. This is a shift in defence manufacturing policy.
Q5: What is special about the AMCA Mk-2 engine?
A: The AMCA Mk-2 will use a 120 kN-class turbofan engine. India is co-developing this engine with Safran of France. It will be very powerful and help the jet fly better.
Month: Current Affairs - May 25, 2026
Category: Defence Technology, National Security