In 2009, the then UPA government allocated Rs 90 and added another Rs 447 for feasibility studies on AMCA. But progress remained sloppy until last March, when the Union Cabinet gave a nod for the program. Yet, the series of technical challenges, particularly with engines, continue to undermine the pace of development.
Analysts expect the AMCA’s first flight to take place in a year or two, with the aircraft expected to enter service only in the early 2030s. “As for AMCA, we cannot build an aircraft in the presence of an engine unless we are dealing with global OEMs. We need to consider a comprehensive strategic partnership that leads to the engine and ultimately the aircraft. There is. If you are trying to quickly pursue AMCA today and believe that the first aircraft will be guided in the next two or three years, that’s unlikely to happen,” says Air Vice, Director of the Air Power Studies Center (CAPS). General Anil Golani (RETD)) told TNSE.
So, in the general reality of a declining, aging fleet until India deployed its first fifth generation fighter jet, while our neighbors themselves reflummed, the problem is that the country is provisionally Should I see foreign offerings? In this context, participation in the Aeroinds of the SU-57 and F-35s becomes more important.
SU-57 V/S F-35: Pros and Cons
Alexander Mikiev, director of the Russian arms exporter Rozoboronexport, is quoted as saying India is offering comprehensive partnerships under the SU-57E project, which includes local manufacturing capabilities. . “Our proposals include supplying assembled aircraft, organisation of joint production in India and supporting the development of Indian fifth generation fighter jets,” Mikheev quoted Sputnik India as saying It was done.
“Rosoboronexport and the Indian side are working to expand bilateral technical cooperation within the framework of the ‘Make in India’ programme. We provide large-scale projects with our partners to develop and produce military aircraft, helicopters, air defense equipment, armored vehicles and ammunition. We are also ready to discuss the possibility of jointly promoting these products in third countries,” Mikheev said in a statement last year.
However, certain issues continue in terms of the SU-57’s assembly and stealth capabilities. And so far, more than 40 SU-57s have been constructed with no confirmed international customers compared to over 1,000 F-35s guided by many air forces around the world. You can also be careful about this. With such a large market for the F-35 and its unique proven record in the large air forces in the world’s atmosphere, India may look like Lockheed Martin’s next big opportunity. Additionally, in a recent call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump said India needs to buy more US arms and ammunition.
However, the main issue surrounding the transfer of F-35 technology to India is the strict US policy of protecting sensitive military technology. This means that India may not be allowed to completely manufacture or significantly alter aircraft within the country. Its reliance on India’s will and foreign components and updates could raise concerns about operational sovereignty.