Defence Sector – DPP, Missions, Schemes, Security Forces, etc.

AMCA Project

Why in the News?

The defence minister has cleared the execution model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, where Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) must now compete with private companies for the production contract under a new industry partnership model.

amca

About the AMCA Project:

  • Overview: The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is India’s fifth-generation stealth fighter being developed by ADA under DRDO.
  • Approval: The project received Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approval in March 2024, with a budget of ₹15,000 crore.
  • Timeline: The first prototype is expected by 2028–29, production by 2032–33, and induction by 2034.
  • Key Features:
    • Stealth design, internal weapons bay, and diverterless supersonic intake.
    • Payload: 1,500 kg internal and 5,500 kg external.
    • Fuel: Internal capacity of 6,500 kg.
  • Development Phases:
    1. AMCA Mk1 will use the GE F-414 engine.
    2. AMCA Mk2 will have a co-developed engine with France’s Safran.
  • Strategic Importance: AMCA will help India counter threats from regional powers like China, which already deploy J-20 and J-35 fighters.

What are 5th Generation Fighter Aircrafts?

  • Definition: Fifth-generation fighters are the most advanced combat aircraft in service today.
  • Examples: Include the F-22 and F-35 (USA), Su-57 (Russia), and J-20 (China).
  • Core Features:
    • Stealth technology to avoid radar detection.
    • Beyond-visual-range (BVR) combat capabilities.
    • AI-based systems and automated battle management.
  • Roles: These jets can perform air combat, surveillance, and ground attacks with precision and multi-role capability.

What does “Generation” mean in Fighter Aircrafts?

  • Classification: Fighter jets are grouped by technological advances that can’t be added through upgrades.
  • Evolution:
    • 1st–3rd Gen: Basic jets with limited speed and weaponry.
    • 4th Gen: Improved radar, manoeuvrability, and precision weapons (e.g., Rafale, Su-30MKI).
    • 5th Gen: Introduces stealth, super-cruise, sensor fusion, and electronic warfare.
  • Comparative Use: While not a perfect measure, “generation” helps compare air force capabilities across countries.

 

[UPSC 2025] With reference to India’s defence, consider the following pairs:

Aircraft type: Description

I. Dornier-228: Maritime patrol aircraft

II. IL-76: Supersonic combat aircraft

III. C-17 Globemaster III: Military transport aircraft

How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) All three (d) None

 

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