In a significant step for India’s fighter jet ambitions, Bharat Forge Limited (BFL), BEML, and Data Patterns (India) Limited have teamed up to pursue the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This initiative, led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), aims to create a completely indigenous stealth fighter.
The partnership involves a strategic stake distribution: Bharat Forge holds 50%, BEML has 30%, and Data Patterns takes 20%. Each company brings unique skills to the table. Bharat Forge offers heavy engineering expertise, BEML contributes manufacturing and assembly knowledge, and Data Patterns focuses on avionics and sensors.
This new alliance comes after another partnership between Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), both also aiming for a role in the AMCA program. With major players like Tata and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) also in the mix, the competition is heating up.
The AMCA program, created by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), plans to produce a fifth-generation stealth fighter. This aircraft will feature advanced avionics, super-cruise capabilities, internal weapons bays, and state-of-the-art electronic warfare systems. Such developments are part of India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, aimed at achieving self-reliance in defense technology.
Proposals for the full engineering model and five aircraft are due by September 30, 2025. Afterwards, the ADA will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to selected bidders.
Industry experts believe that collaborations like this will accelerate India’s fighter jet development and enhance its reputation as a center for advanced aerospace technology. A recent survey indicated that 75% of defense analysts feel these collaborations will boost technological innovation in the sector.
As India marches toward self-sufficiency in defense, this progress highlights the commitment to building a robust national defense capability through indigenous technologies. More information on defense technology advancements can be found in reports from trusted sources like the Defence Research and Development Organisation.
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