Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh announced on Thursday that the procurement process for India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is advancing, with a request for proposal (RFP) likely to be issued soon to shortlisted private sector players. This marks a significant push towards indigenous fighter jet production.
6th-Generation Fighter Partnerships
Speaking at the ANI National Security Summit 2.0 in New Delhi, Singh indicated that India is also exploring partnerships for developing sixth-generation fighter aircraft. He revealed that India has reached out to two international three-country programmes and expressed willingness to collaborate. Additionally, Singh stated that India is working towards developing a multi-layered conventional missile force spanning short, medium, and long ranges.
Diversifying Production Capabilities
Addressing concerns over the absence of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) from key upcoming aerospace projects such as AMCA and Rafale-related production, Singh said diversifying production capabilities is strategically beneficial. He noted that major defence producers like the US, Russia, and China have two fighter production lines in separate companies. On the target of Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029, Singh expressed confidence that the milestone would be comfortably achieved.
DRDO Chief on Hypersonic Missiles and Agni-VI
At the same event, DRDO Chief Samir V Kamat said India's LR-AShM hypersonic glide missile programme has reached an advanced stage, with initial trials expected soon. Regarding the Agni-VI ballistic missile, he stated that the programme depends on a government decision, adding that the agency is fully prepared to proceed when approval is granted. The Agni-VI is expected to be an advanced intercontinental ballistic missile with longer range and improved capabilities compared to existing systems in India's Agni series.
Unmanned Combat Air Vehicles
On unmanned combat air vehicles, Kamat said the Ghatak UCAV will be comparable to a stealth fighter in capability.
