Daily News Analysis ‘Defence Minister approved the execution model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)’ : 28 May

AMCA Execution Model:

• The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) will execute the programme through industry partnerships.
• The execution model provides equal opportunities to both public and private sectors on a competitive basis. Companies can bid independently, as joint ventures, or as consortia.

• AMCA is planned as a 25-tonne, twin-engine, stealth fighter aircraft.
• The design of AMCA is complete, with the first prototype expected by 2028-29.
• Production is targeted to begin by 2032-33, with induction into service planned for 2034.

Technical Features of AMCA

• AMCA will include:
  • An internal weapons bay
  • Diverterless supersonic intake
  • Internal payload capacity of 1,500 kg
  • External payload capacity of 5,500 kg
  • Internal fuel capacity of 6,500 kg
• This marks the first time India has developed diverterless supersonic intake technology.

Development and Engine Plans

• The AMCA will be developed in two phases:
  • Mk1 variant with the General Electric F-414 engine
  • Mk2 variant with a more powerful engine planned for co-development with French company Safran

Why in News?

• The Defence Minister has approved the execution model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet.