Tata, Infosys, and L&T Among 11 Indian Firms Set to Build AMCA Stealth Jet, Ushering in a New Era of Fighter Manufacturing

India’s dream of building its own fifth-generation stealth fighter has taken a giant leap forward. Eleven major private and public-sector companies, including industry heavyweights like Tata, Infosys, and Larsen & Toubro (L&T), have officially responded to an Expression of Interest (EoI) issued by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program.

This bold response marks a significant shift in India’s defence manufacturing landscape, signaling a deeper collaboration between the public and private sectors. It also aligns closely with the government’s 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) mission, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign military technology and boost indigenous capabilities.

The AMCA is envisioned as a cutting-edge, multi-role stealth fighter jet designed for the Indian Air Force. It will be equipped with advanced stealth features to evade enemy radar, supercruise capability (flying at supersonic speeds without afterburners), and next-generation avionics, sensors, and weapons systems. The aircraft is expected to rival fifth-generation fighters like the U.S. F-35 and China’s J-20 in terms of performance and stealth.

Earlier this year, the project received the green light from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), clearing the path for full-scale development. The EoI, issued by ADA under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), specifically focuses on companies interested in designing and producing the aircraft’s airframe — the structural core that plays a key role in stealth and combat durability.

What makes this development even more promising is the adoption of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model for execution. Under this arrangement, DRDO, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and selected private firms will join forces in a collaborative structure to manage the production process. This model ensures flexibility, agility, and efficiency in handling a project of such scale and complexity.

Here’s a breakdown of the types of companies that have responded to the EoI, highlighting the multi-disciplinary nature of the AMCA program:

1. IT & Software Powerhouses

• Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), and Tata Elxsi are expected to bring their expertise in mission-critical software, embedded systems, AI-powered flight control, and cyber-resilient digital architecture to support the jet’s combat and avionics systems.

2. Engineering & Manufacturing Giants

• L&T Technology Services, BEML Ltd, and MTAR Technologies will likely handle the heavy engineering, fabrication of precision airframe parts, hydraulic systems, and ground support infrastructure, all essential to military-grade aircraft.

3. Specialised Aerospace & Defence Innovators

• Azista Composites, with its knowledge in carbon-fiber and stealth composites, will play a key role in reducing radar signatures.

• Cyient, VEM Technologies, Neometrix Defence, and Apollo Micro Systems are expected to contribute to niche areas like sensor integration, flight control electronics, electronic warfare systems, and aerospace-grade circuit boards.

Each of these companies brings a distinct strength to the table, from digital simulation and AI to advanced manufacturing and integration, reinforcing India’s potential to develop a world-class fifth-generation jet.

The AMCA is expected to be developed in multiple phases, with the first flight targeted for the end of this decade. The Mark 1 version will use a foreign engine, possibly the GE F414, while future variants (Mark 2 and beyond) may fly with a more powerful indigenous engine, currently under co-development.

More than just a defence project, the AMCA symbolizes India’s aspiration to become a global player in aerospace innovation. With the country’s best brains and companies coming together, this fighter jet could redefine the future of Indian air power — and position India as a technology leader in the skies.