Three industry candidates have been selected by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to design and develop prototypes for India’s projected Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. as an individual bidder, a Larsen & Toubro-led collaboration with Bharat Electronics Ltd., and a consortium including Bharat Forge, BEML Ltd., and Data Patterns are the three selected bidders.
A single-seat, twin-engine aircraft with sophisticated stealth capabilities and internal armament bays, the AMCA is envisioned as a domestic fifth-generation stealth fighter. The program’s goal is to produce more than 125 aircraft, with induction into the Indian Air Force scheduled for around 2035.
Seven consortiums submitted bids in response to DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency’s July 2025 tenders. Government financing for prototype construction is anticipated for the shortlisted teams, following which manufacturing rights will be determined.
This action is consistent with India’s larger military modernization. Proposals to acquire 114 Rafale fighters and more maritime surveillance planes were recently approved by the Defence Acquisition Council, highlighting a fresh effort to modernize the military.
Source – The Indian Express
