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India has taken a bold step in developing its first indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet—the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)—under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. But what really makes the AMCA “advanced”? In this week’s Defence Mantra, Nitin A. Gokhale breaks down the significance of the recent government approval for the program and what it means for India’s aerospace ambitions.
While stealth often headlines discussions around fifth-gen jets, Nitin A. Gokhale clarifies that stealth isn’t the AMCA’s strongest suit. Instead, the aircraft stands out for a host of other features—from advanced avionics and sensor fusion to future-ready upgrades like directed energy weapons and AI-enabled systems. He explains how these elements make AMCA a truly versatile and modern platform tailored for India’s strategic needs.
The interview also highlights a major shift in the defence manufacturing ecosystem: MSMEs are expected to thrive in the new aviation environment. Until recently, Tata Advanced Systems was the main private partner working with HAL. Now, with the government encouraging broader private sector participation, the AMCA project is set to usher in a new era of collaboration between the public and private sectors—including multiple Indian startups and suppliers.
From technology and timelines to the economic and strategic impact, this conversation offers a comprehensive look at what the AMCA project could mean for India’s defence future—and for the many players looking to be part of it.
Associate Editor
