India has advanced its AMCA fighter program by selecting three private-sector-led consortia to compete for prototype development, marking a structural shift away from sole reliance on state-owned aerospace production. The contract, estimated at ₹150 billion, covers development of five prototypes and a structural test platform in partnership with the Aeronautical Development Agency. HAL’s exclusion is linked to capacity limitations due to its substantial order backlog. The AMCA is envisioned as a stealth-optimized, twin-engine aircraft with internal weapons bays, advanced avionics, and integrated sensor fusion. The Indian Air Force plans to induct approximately 120 units, with initial Mk-1 variants powered by GE F414 engines and future Mk-2 versions incorporating a more powerful domestically developed engine.
