HAL’s Master Plan for AMCA: India’s Indigenous Stealth Fighter Jet Set to Boost IAF

New Delhi: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has clarified its strategic approach toward the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, India’s ambitious indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet. Despite recent media reports suggesting HAL may be excluded from the AMCA prototype development stage, the state-owned aerospace company has confirmed that it intends to play a major role when production orders for the jet are issued in the next decade.

HAL’s Strategic Approach
HAL CMD D.K. Sunil told media outlets that the company has not officially been removed from the AMCA project. While certain private firms may be tasked with prototype development, HAL is preparing to participate in full-scale production when large orders for the Indian Air Force are finalized, expected around 2035.

“The AMCA program is a 10-year project,” said Sunil. “Even if HAL is not shortlisted for the initial prototype phase, it will bid when production licenses are issued. Our focus is on ensuring we are a key contributor in the next stage of this strategic program.”

Prototype Stage and Timeline
The first stage of the AMCA project involves building five prototypes over the next decade. HAL’s plan is to wait for the production stage rather than engaging in the complex design and development phase immediately, allowing the company to focus on projects already in progress.

Current Focus on Existing Projects
Currently, HAL is prioritizing ongoing programs including:

• Tejas LCA Mk1A
• Light Combat Helicopter (LCH)
• Trainer Aircraft
• Civilian Helicopters

HAL already has production orders for these platforms and is awaiting orders for the Tejas LCA Mk2, a 4.5-generation light combat aircraft and an advanced version of Tejas LCA Mk1A, expected around 2030–31.

Progress on Tejas LCA Mk1A
HAL reported that five Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jets are fully ready for induction into the Indian Air Force, with supply discussions underway. In addition, nine more aircraft have been built and successfully test-flown, with the next delivery deadline set for March 2026.

Key Takeaway
HAL’s master plan ensures that the company remains strategically positioned to contribute significantly to India’s AMCA production, while maintaining focus on current priorities. This approach aims to strengthen the Indian Air Force with advanced indigenous stealth technology while efficiently managing resources and timelines.