AI, Supersonic Speed, Drone Swarms: India’s 6th-Gen AMCA is a Flying Supercomputer
New Delhi, Jun 11: India has unveiled its ambitious plans for the development of sixth-generation fighter jets under the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme, weeks after the precision strikes carried out under Operation Sindoor.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has initiated work on two fighter jets named AMCA Mark-1 and AMCA Mark-2. While AMCA Mark-1 aims to address the shortage of the current generation of aircraft, the AMCA Mark-2 will showcase advanced sixth-generation capabilities, relying entirely on indigenous technology.
Currently, the IAF primarily operates 4.5-generation fighter jets like the Rafale and Su-30MKI. With China deploying its J-20 fifth generation stealth fighter aircraft near the Indian border, the need for ultra-modern aircraft in India has become apparent. Reports suggest that China may provide Pakistan with fifth-generation aircraft, highlighting the urgency for India to bolster its fleet.
India’s requirement stands at 42 to 43 fighter jet squadrons, whereas it presently maintains only 30 squadrons, necessitating an addition of 200 to 300 aircraft. The AMCA project addresses this gap, with deliveries expected soon.
These jets will initially be powered by General Electric’s F414 engine, though delays from the American supplier have set the programme back by a year. At the same time, AMCA Mark-2 is likely to feature engines developed using indigenous technology, with several companies competing for the project.
MARK-2: THE PATH TO SIXTH-GENERATION AIRCRAFT
There is a plan to develop a fifth-generation aircraft under AMCA Mark-2. Along with this, several reports indicate that technologies equipped with sixth-generation features will be incorporated, positioning India among the few countries—after the US, China, and Russia—to possess the capability to develop sixth-generation fighter jets.
AMCA Mark-1 will cater to the current requirements of the Indian Air Force and will be powered by an engine supplied by American defence company GE. In contrast, AMCA Mark-2 will feature a fighter engine developed by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) using indigenous technology.
According to reports, under Mark-2, DRDO’s GTRE will develop a sixth-generation-enabled 120 kN indigenous engine. For this, a contract may be signed with foreign partners like Rolls-Royce, Safran, or General Electric.
An engine with a capacity of 100 kN generates around 22,500 pounds of thrust (over 10,000 kilograms). In such a scenario, the power of a 120 kN (kilonewton) engine becomes evident. This engine can deliver up to 30 percent more range and 20 percent more acceleration.
As a result, the strike capability and speed of a jet equipped with a 120 kN engine are significantly enhanced. This is one of the key reasons fifth-generation fighter jets are difficult to detect on radar. Sixth-generation aircraft, with even more advanced features, could prove to be even more lethal and devastating for enemies.
6TH GEN TECHNOLOGY
Apart from the engine, many other components in a fighter jet play a crucial role. According to reports, sixth-generation technology will also be incorporated into the sixth-generation fighter jet. The most notable feature is the AI-based combat system, which makes these jets more dangerous and lethal.
Human intervention will be significantly reduced in sixth-generation aircraft, as they will be equipped with optional manned technology. Additionally, they will have the capability to control UAVs (drones).
In these jets, a single pilot will be able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. This will not only save time but also provide a strategic edge in defeating enemies.
STEALTH POWER
Mark-2 will have significantly enhanced stealth capability, that is, the ability to evade radar detection. Various components, including the materials used in the jet, will be upgraded and updated under the Mark-2 program. A cutting-edge sensor fusion system will also be integrated to further boost its stealth features.
The use of a 120 kN engine combined with optimized airflow will make the aircraft more advanced. Additionally, supersonic technology will be incorporated into its design.
According to experts, with the development of the Mark-2 aircraft, India will not only strengthen its defence capabilities but also establish a strong presence in the international market. This is expected to open up new avenues and contribute to revenue generation.
