Context:
The Defence Minister has approved the execution model for a fifth-generation fighter jet through an industry partnership.
AMCA Programme: Indigenous Fifth-Generation Fighter Jet
- Under the approved model, HAL will compete with private industry to manufacture the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
- The project received Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approval in 2024.
- CCS is headed by the Prime Minister; includes Home, Defence, Finance, and External Affairs Ministers.
- Lead Agency: Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under DRDO.
- Core Capabilities include:
- Supercruise
- Internal weapons bays
- Sensor fusion
- AI-driven avionics
- Radar-absorbing structures
- Prototype expected by 2028–29; induction targeted by 2034.
- Variants:
- AMCA Mk1 with GE-F414 engines
- AMCA Mk2 planned with indigenous engines
- Currently, only USA (F-22, F-35), Russia (Sukhoi Su-57), and China (Chengdu J-20) have operational fifth-generation fighters.
Key Features of Fifth-Generation Fighter Jets
- Twin-engine powered: Enhances air safety and survivability, especially if one engine fails during night operations.
- Stealth capabilities: Equipped with Low-Probability-of-Intercept Radar (LPIR); harder to detect by enemy radar.
- Agile airframes with Supercruise: Allow high maneuverability and supersonic flight without afterburners.
- Advanced avionics: Feature high-tech systems for communication, targeting, and control.
- Integrated computer systems: Enable networked operations and offer 360-degree battlefield awareness without needing to maneuver.
Strategic Importance
- IAF Modernisation: Fills post-MiG-29/Mirage capability gap; boosts squadron strength (31 vs. approved 42).
- Regional Threat Response: Counters China’s J-20 and Pakistan’s J-10C (Chinese origin).
- Technological Sovereignty: Enhances defence autonomy, reduces foreign dependence via Make in India.
Source: DD News
Previous Year Question
With reference to India’s defence, consider the following pairs:
Aircraft Type: Description
I. Dornier-228: Maritime patrol aircraft
II. IL-76: Supersonic combat aircraft
III. C-17: Globemaster III Military transport aircraft
How many of the pairs are correctly matched?
[UPSC CSE – 2025 Prelims]
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation:
Pair I: Dornier-228 – Maritime patrol aircraft ✅ Correct
Dornier-228 is a twin-turboprop light aircraft used by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. It is primarily used for maritime surveillance, coastal patrol, and reconnaissance.
Pair II: IL-76 – Supersonic combat aircraft ❌ Incorrect
IL-76 is a strategic heavy-lift transport aircraft developed by the Soviet Union. It is not a supersonic combat aircraft; it is used for transporting troops, cargo, and military equipment.
Pair III: C-17 Globemaster III – Military transport aircraft ✅ Correct
C-17 Globemaster III is a heavy-lift military transport aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force. It is used for rapid strategic airlift of troops and cargo.