When will India lead in cutting-edge technology?
The AMCA project has come under intense scrutiny and debate, particularly when juxtaposed with the rapid and significant advancements made by other nations in the development of fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
One of the most significant issues with the AMCA program is the persistent delays in its development. The AMCA project was envisaged years ago but it has lagged behind other nations' timelines for developing fifth-generation fighters. For instance, the U.S. introduced the F-22 Raptor as the first operational fifth-generation fighter in 2005 and followed up with the F-35 Lightning II, which entered service with the U.S. Marine Corps in 2015 and the U.S. Air Force in 2016. China and Russia have also fielded operational fifth-generation fighters, the Chengdu J-20 and Sukhoi Su-57, respectively.
In contrast, India's AMCA is still in the developmental phase, with the Cabinet Committee on Security only recently clearing a ₹15,000 crore project for its development in 2024. This means that while other nations are refining and mass-producing their fifth-generation fighters, India is still several years away from even the first flight of the AMCA, which is expected in 4-5 years, with full operational deployment potentially a decade away.
The delays in the AMCA program poses significant implications for national security. In an era where air superiority is crucial, the IAF continues to operate with older, less capable aircraft, potentially compromising its ability to maintain air dominance. This situation is exacerbated by the advancements made by neighboring countries. China's J-20 and Pakistan's collaboration with China for the JF-17 underscore the urgent need for India to modernize its air force capabilities.
The protracted timeline for the AMCA's development raises questions about the commitment and efficiency of the involved agencies. While India's defense procurement process is known for its bureaucratic hurdles, the need for a streamlined and urgent approach to the AMCA program cannot be overstated. National security should be a priority, and any further delays could leave the country vulnerable in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
Comparing our progress with other nations further highlights our bureaucratic inefficiencies. Turkey's TF Kaan made its first flight in February 2024, a significant milestone demonstrating Turkey's capability to expedite the development of its indigenous fifth-generation fighter. Similarly, South Korea's KF-21 has entered production and is expected to deliver its first aircraft by 2026, outpacing India's AMCA timeline significantly.
These examples illustrate the importance of a focused and accelerated development process. Other countries have shown that with the right strategy and commitment, it is possible to achieve significant milestones in a shorter period. India's slower pace reflects a need for a more aggressive and efficient approach to defense technology development.
I'm a very serious nationalist, this neglect compels us to question the efficiency of the authority's decision making regarding this issue. The delays in the AMCA program are not just technical and administrative setbacks; they are a matter of national pride and security. The inability to produce an advanced indigenous fighter aircraft on par with global standards reflects poorly on the nation's commitment to self-reliance in defense. This situation demands accountability from the authorities responsible for defense procurement and development. Ensuring that the AMCA program stays on track and meets its developmental milestones is essential not just for technological advancement but for safeguarding national security. If PSUs are unable to accomplish this on their own, they should collaborate with private sector players but get this shit done as swiftly as possible. The government and defense agencies must prioritize this project, learn from global peers, and implement reforms to expedite the process. Only then can we hope to maintain its strategic edge in the region and beyond.