Home / War and Conflict / HAL Out of AMCA Race: India's Stealth Jet Future Uncertain
HAL Out of AMCA Race: India's Stealth Jet Future Uncertain
4 Feb
Summary
- HAL excluded from India's advanced medium combat aircraft program.
- Three consortia advance to bid for building five AMCA prototypes.
- Contract award expected in three months to the lowest bidder.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will not participate in developing India's advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA), a significant departure from the state-run firm's involvement in major military projects. This decision follows the evaluation of seven consortia that bid for the program last year.
Three of these consortia have now progressed to the next stage, which requires them to submit cost bids for constructing five AMCA prototypes and one structural test specimen. HAL's bid, partnered with two smaller firms, did not meet the mandatory criteria for advancement. The contract is expected to be awarded to the lowest bidder within the next three months.
The AMCA program, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security for around ₹15,000 crore in 2024, aims to bolster the Indian Air Force's modernization. The first prototype is projected to fly in 2029, with development completion targeted by 2034, before production commences in 2035.
This competitive bidding model, approved last year, aims to accelerate the development of the stealth fighter, especially given the rapid advancements in fifth-generation aircraft by nations like China. The AMCA will eventually feature two variants: Mk-1 powered by American engines and the more advanced Mk-2 with a jointly developed engine with France.
