The Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) are set to select the winning industry partners for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program by mid-2026, marking a pivotal step in the country’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet initiative.
The AMCA program aims to develop India’s first stealth multi-role fighter capable of air superiority, ground strikes, electronic warfare, and suppression of enemy air defences, with serial production targeted by 2035. Five prototypes are planned, with the first expected to roll out by late 2026 or early 2027 and maiden flight anticipated in 2028. Certification is targeted by 2032, followed by operational induction by 2034.
Seven Indian firms and consortia have submitted bids under ADA’s Expression of Interest (EoI), including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Larsen & Toubro (L&T), TATA Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), Adani Defence and Aerospace, Kalyani Strategic Systems, and a consortium led by BrahMos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Ltd alongside Goodluck India Ltd and Axiscades Technologies. These bidders proposed strategic partnerships leveraging expertise in airframe manufacturing, avionics, propulsion, and systems integration.
A high-level committee, chaired by former DRDO missile scientist A. Sivathanu Pillai, is evaluating the bids on technical proficiency, financial viability, and ability to meet demanding timelines. The final selection will determine the consortia responsible for co-developing the AMCA prototypes, overseeing flight tests, and preparing for serial production.
The AMCA program represents a transformative step for India’s aerospace sector, moving from a predominantly state-led manufacturing model to a consortium-driven approach involving private sector participation. It is expected to bolster indigenous capabilities, reduce import dependency, and position India strategically in the global fifth-generation fighter landscape.
The announcement of the winning partners by mid-2026 will set the stage for India’s next-generation stealth fighter, with significant strategic and industrial implications for the country’s defence ecosystem.
