What Is the AMCA? India’s Fifth-Generation Stealth Fighter

The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is India’s planned fifth-generation stealth fighter, designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency in Bengaluru. The government approved about 150 billion rupees for its development in 2024, and in 2025 opened the building of prototypes to private industry. Five prototypes are planned, with a first flight targeted for around 2028-29 and service entry around 2034-35. Until it arrives, India has no stealth fighter, while China flies hundreds.

This guide explains what the AMCA is, who will build it and how realistic its timeline is.

What is the AMCA?

The AMCA is a twin-engine, single-seat stealth fighter of about 25 tonnes, with internal weapons bays, a stealthy shape, an Indian-designed radar and sensors, and the ability to supercruise, or fly faster than sound without afterburners. It is intended to complement the Rafale and Su-30MKI and eventually replace older types. The air force has said it would buy at least seven squadrons, about 120 or more aircraft.

A new way to build a fighter

In May 2025 the government approved an unusual model for the AMCA: rather than giving the work to the state-owned HAL, it opened the prototype contract to competition, allowing private companies to bid alone or in consortia. In early 2026 three bidders were reported to be shortlisted: Tata Advanced Systems, a group led by Larsen & Toubro with Bharat Electronics, and a group led by Bharat Forge. HAL’s bid was reported not to have met the technical requirements. The aim is to speed up development and build a second fighter production line in India. Tata’s defence business is profiled in our article on Tata Advanced Systems.

The engine question

Engines have long been India’s weak point: the home-grown Kaveri engine never reached the power the Tejas needed. The first AMCAs will use two American GE F414 engines, the same type chosen for the Tejas Mk2. For the later Mk2 version, India has agreed with France’s Safran to co-develop a more powerful engine of about 110-120 kilonewtons, with India owning the design. Delays in GE engine deliveries for the Tejas have made this a priority.

How does it compare?

China already flies about 500 J-20 stealth fighters and is producing the J-35, and has flown two sixth-generation prototypes, as described in our guides to Chinese fighter jets and China’s sixth-generation fighters. Pakistan has been widely reported to be in line for the Chinese J-35. India’s air force chief warned in October 2026 that if the AMCA is delayed, India will “have to look at some other platforms”, and Russia has offered its Su-57. India’s current fighters are described in our guide to Indian fighter jets.

Frequently asked questions

What is the AMCA?

India’s planned fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency.

When will the AMCA fly?

The first flight is targeted for around 2028-29, with service entry around 2034-35.

Who will build the AMCA?

A private-sector partner chosen by competition. Tata Advanced Systems and consortia led by L&T and Bharat Forge were reported shortlisted in 2026.

What engine will the AMCA use?

The first version will use two GE F414 engines; a more powerful engine is being co-developed with France’s Safran for later versions.

Does India have a stealth fighter?

Not yet. The AMCA is India’s first stealth fighter programme.

How many AMCAs will India buy?

The air force has spoken of at least seven squadrons, about 120 or more aircraft.