India is accelerating its future air combat capabilities with plans to explore partnerships for sixth-generation fighter aircraft while advancing the induction of 67 Ghatak UCAV systems, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said.
AMCA Programme Gains Momentum
The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme is progressing, with:
- Request for Proposal (RFP) to be issued soon
- Private sector participation expected
- Focus on indigenous fifth-generation fighter development
Push for Sixth-Generation Fighters
India is also exploring collaboration with global partners for:
- Development of sixth-generation fighter aircraft
- Sharing costs and advanced technologies
- Participation in ongoing international multi-nation programmes
Induction of Ghatak UCAVs
According to Samir V Kamat, the Ghatak UCAV:
- Will have stealth fighter-like capabilities
- Belong to a ~13-ton class platform
- Enhance autonomous strike capability
A proposal has been cleared to induct around 67 UCAVs, significantly boosting India’s unmanned combat fleet.
Bridging Capability Gaps
The government is also focusing on addressing critical gaps in the Indian Air Force, including:
- Fighter aircraft strength
- Aerial refuellers
- Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS)
Contracts for these are expected within the next year.
Diversifying Defence Production
The Defence Secretary emphasised:
- Need for multiple production lines
- Reduced dependency on a single manufacturer
- Enhanced competition and supply chain resilience
Towards Future-Ready Air Power
The initiatives reflect India’s push towards:
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence
- Advanced combat aviation technologies
- Integrated manned-unmanned warfare capability
