As part of plans to develop an indigenous advanced combat aircraft, India is planning to be ready with the first prototype of the 5.5 generation fighter jet by 2028.
The project was discussed in detail at a recent meeting between the Indian Air Force and the Defence Research and Development Organisation where its roadmap was reviewed.
Senior defence officials told ANI that the 5.5 generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft would be a stealth aircraft and weigh around 27 tonnes with the capability to carry huge weapons load.
The agencies involved are looking at developing capabilities that would allow the plane to carry the missiles in a completely concealed configuration for stealth, they said.
Conventionally, it would be able to carry much more weapons, they said.
The officials said that if engine production and other concerned activities move in time, the first prototype would be ready by 2028.
The aircraft would require at least six to seven years for development and preparing it for fighting wars of the future.
The aircraft project would also see the DRDO selecting a development cum production partner which will include a public sector unit and a private sector firm.
The mass production of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a 5.5-generation fighter, is expected to start by 2035.
The IAF and the DRDO have worked out a timeline for the LCA Mark 2 program also. The prototype of a 4.5 generation fighter, initially expected by early 2025, has been delayed by approximately a year, attributed to delays in the release of approved funds, linked to the engine deal for the next indigenous fighter.
The LCA aircraft are scheduled to be powered by American GE engines; LCA Mark 1 and Mark 1A by GE-404 engines, while the LCA Mark 2 will utilize the more advanced GE-414, manufactured in India with indigenous content.
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