India is making strides in aerospace with its fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This project is not just about advanced military tech; it brings a focus on sustainability through an innovative, non-toxic green coating.
This eco-friendly coating is a game-changer. It shows how India is working toward self-reliance in defense without harming the environment. The new coating is part of the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, which promotes local manufacturing.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has overseen the project since the Indian government approved it in May 2025. With a budget of around Rs 15,000 crore, the AMCA is expected to have its first flight by 2029 and be ready for the Indian Air Force by 2034.
Designed for various tasks, including air superiority and deep penetration strikes, the AMCA will ultimately replace India’s aging Sukhoi Su-30MKI fleet. It boasts advanced features like internal weapons bays and the ability to travel at sustained supersonic speeds without afterburners.
What makes the AMCA stand out is its innovative stealth capabilities. The aircraft’s shape minimizes radar detectability. The new green coating, named Anālakṣhya, plays a vital role in this. Developed by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Anālakṣhya uses metamaterials to absorb radar signals, making the aircraft almost invisible.
This coating is groundbreaking for more than just its stealth capabilities. It’s entirely free from the toxic chemicals that traditional radar-absorbent paints often contain. It absorbs over 90% of incoming radar waves, turning them into harmless heat. This reduces health risks for workers and prevents environmental damage when the aircraft are decommissioned.
The coating’s materials are over 90% sourced from India, which strengthens domestic production and reduces foreign dependency. Testing has confirmed its durability across various conditions, solidifying its role in the AMCA.
With this initiative, India joins a select group of nations capable of crafting their own fifth-generation stealth fighters, positioning itself alongside the United States, Russia, and China. This development comes at a time when regional tensions are high, giving the Indian Air Force a strategic edge.
Though there are challenges ahead—like engine development—DRDO Chief Samir V. Kamat is optimistic about meeting the 2035 timeline. With progress in tests and prototype development, the AMCA could reshape India’s airpower in the years to come.
Overall, not only does the AMCA represent a leap in defense technology, but it also sets a standard for sustainable practices in military manufacturing. By focusing on eco-friendly solutions, India paves the way for more responsible defense initiatives globally.
For more on green technologies in defense, you can see the latest reports from the World Economic Forum.
