HAL Aims for AMCA Licence Manufacturing Despite Prototype Screening Outcome
In a significant development for India's defence sector, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the state-owned aerospace company, has announced its intention to participate in the bidding process for the licence manufacturing of the indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This process is scheduled to commence in 2035, marking a long-term strategic move for the nation's military aviation capabilities.
Commitment to AMCA Programme Regardless of Initial Shortlisting
DK Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, stated on Thursday that the company will bid for the licence manufacturing of the AMCA even if the consortium it formed with two other companies is not shortlisted in the initial screening process. "We are yet to receive any official communication about the firms being shortlisted in the screening process," he told The Indian Express, emphasizing that the AMCA is a comprehensive 10-year programme. "Even if we assume that HAL is not shortlisted in the initial screening for building the five prototypes of the aircraft, we will bid when fresh tenders are floated for the licence manufacturing of the jet," Sunil added, clarifying that non-participation in stage one does not preclude involvement in stage two.
Current Status of Consortia Shortlisting and Project Details
The process for shortlisting consortia of public and private sector firms that bid for the AMCA project last year remains incomplete. While initial technical evaluations have narrowed down the field to three out of seven consortia, financial evaluations based on submitted cost bids are still underway. The shortlisted consortia will be tasked with building five AMCA prototypes and a structural test specimen, a critical phase in the aircraft's development and testing.
Sunil further noted that HAL has not included the AMCA in its revenue projections for the next decade, as it is a long-term programme with manufacturing set to begin around 2035. This highlights the strategic patience and forward planning involved in such high-stakes defence projects.
Importance of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
The AMCA represents a pivotal advancement in India's indigenous defence manufacturing, aiming to enhance air superiority with stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and superior combat performance. Its development underscores India's push for self-reliance in defence technology and reducing dependency on foreign imports.
As the project progresses, HAL's potential involvement in licence manufacturing could bolster domestic production capabilities, create jobs, and strengthen the aerospace ecosystem. The AMCA is poised to play a crucial role in modernizing the Indian Air Force and securing national airspace in the coming decades.
