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India Defence Online, New Delhi — The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has revealed that it is seeking funds to the tune of $2 billion from the Indian government for the development of the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA).
Speaking at the recently concluded Aviation Conclave 2010, PS Subramanyam, programme director (combat aircraft) and director of the ADA, indicated that the $2 billion fund will initially be utilised to develop two technology demonstrators and seven prototypes. The first flight test of the AMCA is expected to take place by 2017. The ADA falls under the Department of Defence and Research and Development of the Indian defence ministry. The work on fifth generation AMCA has already been initiated with the government giving Rs.100 crores and the rest of the $2 billion is expected in the next couple of years.
The AMCAs are aiming to bridge the gap between light combat aircraft ‘Tejas’ and Sukhoi heavy weight fighters. The AMCA will be designed with a small radar cross-section and will feature internal weapons and advanced electronic systems. The twin-engine, stealth-multirole fighter will be equipped with missiles like the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)’s Astra, besides stand-off and precision weapons. Unlike its western counterparts, the AMCA will be the first medium combat aircraft in the world to weigh only about 20 tonnes. With aerodynamic design optimisation near complete, the AMCA’s broad specifications are final.
The AMCA will also feature serpentine shaped air-intakes, internal weapons and the use of carbon composites and other materials. The AMCA would have an operational range of 30 kilometres and will be equipped with stealth technology to prevent detection by enemy radar and capability for super-cruise flight.
The AMCA project was conceived in October 2008 when the Indian Air Force (IAF) asked the ADA to prepare a detailed project report on the development of a Medium Combat Aircraft (MCA) incorporating stealth features. By mid 2010, the IAF issued the Air Staff requirements (ASR) for the AMCA. Although the AMCAs are primarily being designed to meet the requirements of the IAF, the ADA is considering a new variant for the Indian Navy as well.
Indian defence news and strategic intelligence
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