India's Ministry of Defence has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the prototype development of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
The move accelerates India's pursuit of an indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter, a critical step in reducing reliance on foreign military imports under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
A spokesperson for the Defence Ministry said the RFP for the AMCA prototypes is valued at Rs 15,000 crore [1]. This procurement process aims to transition the project from a design phase into physical prototype construction. Three consortiums have been shortlisted to participate in the development process [2].
While some reports indicate the RFP has been formally issued, other officials have provided varying timelines. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said the procurement process for the AMCA is progressing and the ministry expects to issue a Request for Proposal soon [3].
The AMCA program represents a leap in domestic aviation technology, focusing on stealth capabilities and advanced sensor integration. These prototypes will serve as the foundation for a fleet of aircraft designed to maintain air superiority in contested environments.
Beyond the fifth-generation project, India is exploring broader collaborations. Akhil Kadidal said India is looking to join international sixth-generation fighter programmes alongside its domestic AMCA [3]. This dual-track approach seeks to secure immediate capabilities while ensuring the nation remains competitive in future aerial warfare technology.
“The Ministry has issued an RFP worth Rs 15,000 crore for the development of the AMCA prototypes.”
By investing in the AMCA and eyeing sixth-generation partnerships, India is attempting to leapfrog traditional procurement cycles. Developing a domestic stealth platform reduces strategic vulnerability to sanctions or supply chain disruptions from foreign allies, while the pursuit of sixth-generation tech suggests a desire to integrate AI and unmanned wingmen into its future air force architecture.
