Rajpath to Runway: AMCA, India’s First 5th-Gen Stealth Jet, Gets Official Approval

National News: India on Tuesday added a new chapter in defense history by officially approving its first indigenous stealth fighter aircraft project, AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft). This ambitious project received official approval during a high-level meeting of the Ministry of Defence, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. With this decision, India has now joined the ranks of those few countries that have the capability to develop 5th-generation stealth fighter jets.

What is AMCA?

AMCA, i.e., Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, is a twin-engine, single-seat, multi-role fighter jet equipped with stealth technology. Its design has been developed entirely in India by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). This aircraft is being prepared with such technologies that it can escape the radar and carry out operations by entering enemy territory secretly.

Why is AMCA special?

This aircraft will have many cutting-edge features, such as

1. Internal weapon bay — weapons will remain hidden inside, which will maintain the stealth capability of the aircraft.

2. Supercruise technology—faster flight than Mach-1 (speed of sound) possible even without afterburner.

3. AI-based cockpit — will give the pilot a complete 360-degree analysis of the battle situation.

4. Network-centric warfare — real-time connectivity to drones, satellites, and ground systems.

Why is this aircraft important for India?

China already has more than 250 J-20 stealth jets, and Pakistan is preparing to buy advanced jets like the J-35 soon. In such a situation, it has become a strategic need for India to have its own indigenous stealth force. According to experts, without stealth technology, it will be difficult to maintain the superiority of the Air Force in future wars.

What's next?

The first version of AMCA will come with the US-made GE-414 engine, while later it will use the completely indigenous "Kaveri engine." DRDO has started its testing in Russia. The plan is that this aircraft can join the service of the Indian Air Force around 2030.

The AMCA is more than just a fighter jet — it stands as a powerful symbol of India's self-reliant defense capabilities. This will give new confidence to the Indian Air Force, and India will also emerge as a strong contender in the field of defense exports.