India's AMCA Procurement Gains Momentum: Indigenous Fighter Jet Production on Horizon

India's Defence Secretary, Rajesh Kumar Singh, announced progress in acquiring the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). A Request for Proposal may soon be issued to private companies, pushing towards domestic fighter jet manufacturing. Collaboration for sixth-generation fighters is also explored, diversifying production lines and enhancing defense capabilities.

In a significant development, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh announced that India's acquisition process for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is advancing, with a Request for Proposal set to be issued shortly to selected private firms. This marks a pivotal step towards boosting indigenous production of fighter jets.

Speaking at the ANI National Security Summit 2.0 in the capital, Singh noted the momentum in the fifth-generation AMCA program. He also indicated potential collaboration in sixth-generation fighter development, given investment needs, by showing India's openness to join international efforts.

Addressing the exclusion of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) from key aerospace projects like AMCA, Singh underscored the benefits of diversifying production capabilities. Strategic redundancy is seen as advantageous, avoiding reliance on a singular entity to strengthen supply chain resilience.

The Defence Secretary further highlighted ongoing steps to address critical gaps in the Indian Air Force, including fighter aircraft, refuellers, and AWACS, with contracts expected soon. Meanwhile, DRDO's Ghatak UCAVs are poised to match stealth fighter capabilities, emphasizing India's commitment to advancing combat aviation technology.