The Defence Minister authorizes the AMCA fighter jet execution model through industry collaboration.

• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to compete with private industry to manufacture indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet.

• Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) to execute the programme through industry partnership.

• Speeding up AMCA development and induction is critical due to China’s fielding of two fifth-generation fighters and supply of 40 J-35s to Pakistan.

• HAL will have to bid individually or in a consortium with others.

• The AMCA project received approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security in March 2024 at an estimated cost of ₹15,000 crore.

• The first prototype is expected to roll out by 2028-29, with production starting from 2032-33.

• The aircraft is expected to be ready for induction in 2034.

• AMCA features an internal weapons bay and diverterless supersonic intake, developed in India for the first time.

• Development planned in two phases: a Mk1 with the General Electric F-414 engine and a Mk2 with a more powerful engine co-developed with Saran of France.