India's answer to Su-30MKI, Rafale: DRDO builds 6th-gen stealth fighter jets for IAF

India’s current squadron strength is around 30, well below the required 42–43 squadrons. This shortfall translates to a need for an additional 200–300 fighter aircraft.

India has taken a major step forward in its defence capabilities with the launch of its ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme, aimed at developing sixth-generation fighter jets. This announcement follows the recent precision airstrikes conducted under Operation Sindoor. As per a CNN-News18 report, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is working on two variants: AMCA Mark-1 and AMCA Mark-2. While Mark-1 is designed to bridge the gap in current aircraft availability, the more advanced Mark-2 is expected to incorporate cutting-edge sixth-generation technologies, fully relying on indigenous systems.

At present, the IAF predominantly operates 4.5-generation fighters such as the Rafale and Su-30MKI. With China deploying its fifth-generation stealth J-20 fighters near the border and the possibility of Pakistan acquiring similar aircraft, the need for more modern and sophisticated jets has become pressing.

India’s current squadron strength is around 30, well below the required 42–43 squadrons. This shortfall translates to a need for an additional 200–300 fighter aircraft. The AMCA initiative is being developed to meet this demand, with deliveries expected in the near future.

Initially, AMCA Mark-1 will be powered by General Electric’s F414 engines. However, delays from the U.S. supplier have already pushed back the timeline by approximately a year. For AMCA Mark-2, plans are underway to use a completely Indian-developed engine, with several domestic and international companies in the race for collaboration.

Mark-2: Stepping into the Sixth Generation

Though AMCA Mark-2 is initially set to be a fifth-generation platform, it will feature multiple sixth-generation capabilities. Once operational, India will join an elite group of countries—namely the United States, China, and Russia—developing sixth-generation combat aircraft.

Mark-1 will meet the immediate operational needs of the IAF and will be equipped with GE engines. In contrast, Mark-2 is expected to feature an engine developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), using indigenous technologies.

Indigenous 120 kN Engine Under Development

For the Mark-2 variant, GTRE plans to build a powerful 120 kN engine. Talks are underway with international firms such as Rolls-Royce, Safran, and General Electric for possible collaboration. To put its power into perspective, an engine rated at 100 kN can generate around 22,500 pounds (approximately 10,200 kilograms) of thrust. A 120 kN engine would significantly enhance aircraft speed, range, and strike capability, providing about 30% more range and 20% greater acceleration compared to current engines.

These performance improvements would not only increase stealth but also enhance the aircraft’s ability to evade enemy radar, a crucial feature of fifth and sixth-generation jets.

What Sets 6th Generation Technology Apart?

Beyond propulsion, sixth-generation fighters will incorporate a host of advanced systems. One of the most transformative features will be the integration of artificial intelligence-based combat systems, allowing aircraft to make split-second decisions with minimal human input.

These jets will also support optionally manned missions and be capable of managing UAVs in combat scenarios. A single pilot will be able to control multiple operations at once, dramatically improving combat efficiency and operational effectiveness.

With the AMCA project gaining momentum, India is not just addressing current gaps in its aerial defence capabilities but also preparing to leapfrog into the future of air warfare.