Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh urged the global community to collaborate with India in the co-development and co-production of advanced defense systems, emphasizing that the current global security environment requires innovative approaches and stronger partnerships. He made these remarks at the Defence Ministers’ Conclave titled ‘Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement (BRIDGE)’, held as part of the 15th Aero India in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 11, 2025. The event was attended by over 162 delegates from 81 countries, including 15 Defence Ministers, 11 Deputy Defence Ministers, 15 Permanent Secretaries, and 17 Service Chiefs.
The Raksha Mantri also highlighted India’s thriving defense start-up ecosystem, which boasts the third-largest number of unicorns globally. He emphasized the tremendous opportunities for collaboration within India’s aerospace and defense sectors, supported by a strong R&D base and a culture of entrepreneurship. “Our skill base enables us to produce at highly competitive costs. India is committed to sharing state-of-the-art defense equipment, hardware, services, and technology with our partners,” he affirmed.
India’s vision for peace, security, and development, as guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s five ‘S’ approach—Samman (Respect), Samvaad (Dialogue), Sahyog (Cooperation), Shanti (Peace), and Samriddhi (Prosperity)—was also outlined by Shri Rajnath Singh. He stated that these principles form the foundation of India’s international engagements and resonate strongly in today’s world, which is increasingly fragmented.
He further pointed out that India’s status as a preferred partner for defense exports is based on its commitment to quality, reliability, and responsiveness to the specific needs of its partners. “Our defense industry is equipped to meet diverse requirements, from cutting-edge technology to cost-effective solutions, and we take pride in offering customized support to strengthen the capabilities of our partner nations,” he said.
Shri Rajnath Singh described the BRIDGE initiative as a platform for turning dialogue into actionable outcomes, fostering resilient, adaptable, and forward-looking partnerships. He noted that challenges such as terrorism, cybercrime, humanitarian crises, and climate-induced disasters require a unified global response.
During the conclave, the Defence Ministers praised the Department of Defence Production for organizing Aero India, offering a platform for world-class manufacturers to showcase their latest innovations. They commended the BRIDGE concept, which aims to work towards peace and prosperity for all, and expressed a willingness to collaborate with India on defense and other areas. Many delegates emphasized the importance of technology transfer and co-development, recognizing India as a key partner in building resilient supply chains. They also acknowledged India’s contributions to peacekeeping and its efforts in strengthening the capabilities of other countries across various sectors.
India’s aerospace sector, led by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), is actively developing several advanced aircraft programs. Below is a detailed overview of these initiatives, including consortiums, pricing, and projected rollout dates:
1. Tejas Mark 1A
- Overview: An advanced variant of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), the Tejas Mark 1A features over 40 enhancements, including an upgraded avionics suite, improved weapon systems, and enhanced survivability features.
- Development Consortium: HAL leads the development, with significant contributions from DRDO and private sector partners. BEL is supplying critical avionics and upgrades.
- Pricing: The Indian government approved the procurement of 83 Tejas Mark 1A aircraft for ₹36,000 crore (approximately $4.2 billion).
- Rollout Dates:
- First flight of the prototype occurred on 20 May 2022.
- The first production series Mark 1A aircraft conducted its inaugural flight on 28 March 2024.
- Initial deliveries to the Indian Air Force (IAF) are expected to commence in mid-2025.
2. Tejas Mark 2
- Overview: The Tejas Mark 2 is a medium-weight fighter designed to address the IAF’s requirements for a more powerful and versatile aircraft. It is equipped with the GE F414 INS6 engine, offering enhanced performance.
- Development Consortium: Led by ADA, with HAL responsible for production and DRDO providing technological support. GE Aerospace is collaborating on the engine supply and potential joint production in India.
- Rollout Dates:
- Prototype rollout is planned by the end of 2025.
- First flight is anticipated in the first quarter of 2026.
- Four prototypes are expected to be completed by 2027 for testing purposes.
- Final operational clearance is targeted for 2028, with induction into the IAF by 2028-29.
It is pertinent to note that when India’s home-grown fifth-generation fighter takes wings, the country would still be a generation behind other major air forces. This even as the production of the DRDO-designed fourth-generation fighter, Tejas, by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is facing headwinds and the pace of induction is sorely lagging, prompting the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Aman Preet Singh, to reportedly comment during his visit to Aero India that “at the moment, I am just not confident of HAL, which was a very wrong thing to happen”.
Also Read, In Depth Analysis: Tejas MK2
3. Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
- Overview: The AMCA is a fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft under development to meet the IAF’s future combat requirements.
- Development Consortium: In an interview with a senior official from ADA, they shared with DefenceXP that the AMCA project is being managed by ADA, with HAL handling production and DRDO providing technological support. The development of the AMCA, executed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), follows the trajectory of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) project, which culminated in the delayed production of the Tejas. In March 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the AMCA prototype development at a cost of ₹15,000 crore.
- Some senior defence officials have also characterized the AMCA as a 5.5-generation fighter, suggesting that, in addition to the capabilities of current fifth-generation fighters, it may incorporate some features expected in sixth-generation aircraft. While ADA is leading the development of the AMCA, a number of public and private sector organizations are collaborating on this complex technological endeavor. Initially, five prototypes will be developed by industry partners, and while the first flight was originally planned for 2017, first operational units are planned for rollout by 2035. The aircraft is expected to evolve into a fully-fledged sixth-generation fighter by 2040.
- The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to procure at least 125 AMCAs to equip seven squadrons. These aircraft will eventually replace the Russian-origin Su-30 MKI fighters, which currently form the backbone of the IAF’s fleet. The IAF operates 260 Su-30s across 13 squadrons, with an additional 12 aircraft on order.
Also Read, Understanding The AMCA Programme
4. Sukhoi Su-57 Collaboration
- Overview: Russia has offered to collaborate with India on producing the Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter jet domestically. At the Aero India 2025 international airshow in Bangalore, the Sukhoi Su-57 multirole, fifth-generation fighter attracted significant attention from experts and potential customers. Mikhail Babich, Deputy Head of the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) of the Russian Federation, shared an in-depth evaluation of the Su-57’s capabilities in an interview with TASS news agency. He discussed prospects for collaboration with India and expressed confidence in the Russian fighter’s superiority over American and Chinese counterparts. The focus was on its exceptional combination of flight performance, weaponry, and cost-effectiveness, positioning the Su-57 as a highly competitive option in the global market.
- “At Aero India, we have our pilot team and the aircraft, which will be performing all the display flights. Naturally, discussions will take place. It’s clear to everyone that the Su-57 is currently the only fifth-generation aircraft of its type that has been proven, not only in demonstration flights but also in real-world operational use. Professionals monitoring the fighter’s effectiveness and its technical specifications rate it highly. There’s no other aircraft like it in the world today,” Babich remarked.
- The primary aim of showcasing the Su-57 at Aero India 2025 is to explore the possibility of resuming collaboration with India on the production and development of the Su-57. Several discussions with Indian representatives are scheduled to cover the supply of finished aircraft, joint production, and further modernization to meet India’s specific needs. This partnership could result in a version of the Su-57 tailored for the Indian Armed Forces. Russia’s willingness to adapt technologies and work collaboratively reflects a strong commitment to a long-term partnership.
- Babich emphasized that the Su-57’s operational experience in combat distinguishes it from its competitors. He highlighted key advantages such as its low radar cross-section (RCS), enhanced situational awareness, advanced target tracking, and the effectiveness of its standard weaponry.
- The Russian side is also open to resuming the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) project and pursuing co-production in India with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This aligns with India’s goal of localizing production and strengthening its aerospace capabilities. Babich mentioned that Russia is ready to contribute its expertise and technology to Indian projects for developing new aircraft.
- The Su-57’s presentation underscored its “value for money” proposition, which, according to Babich, is one of its key competitive strengths. He believes Indian partners will appreciate this balance when considering future collaboration, especially amid the intense competition in the arms market.
5. Kaveri Engine
- Program Overview: The Kaveri engine program aims to develop an indigenous engine for military aircraft, primarily to power the Tejas Mark 2 and AMCA. The engine has faced delays but is critical to India’s aerospace self-reliance.
- Development Consortium:
- Lead Organization: DRDO (GTRE – Gas Turbine Research Establishment).
- Production: HAL, private sector collaboration for manufacturing.
- Rollout Dates:
- First prototype expected by 2028.
- Potential for operational use starting 2029 onwards.
6. Joint Production of GE F414 Engines
- Overview: HAL and GE Aerospace have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly produce the GE F414 engine in India, which will power the Tejas Mark 2 and AMCA.
- Development Consortium: HAL and GE Aerospace are the primary partners in this initiative.
- Rollout Dates:
- Negotiations for technology transfer are ongoing, with production expected to commence within two years of signing the final contract.
7. Tejas Mark 1A Engine Bay Door Production
- Overview: HAL and the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) have signed a technology transfer agreement for the production of the BMI Engine Bay Door for the Tejas Mark 1A.
- Development Consortium: HAL and NAL are collaborating on this initiative.
- Rollout Dates:
- The first set of Carbon-BMI Engine Bay Door assemblies successfully completed the inaugural flight on 28 March 2024.
8. Secondary Flight Control Systems for Tejas Mk 1A
- Overview: ADA delivered the first batch of Secondary Flight Control systems for the Tejas Mk 1A, including indigenously designed Leading Edge Slats and Airbrake Control Modules.
- Development Consortium: ADA, Research Centre Imarat (RCI), and Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI) collaborated on this development.
- Rollout Dates:
- The technology is ready to be integrated with production variants of Tejas Mk 1A, with successful flight trials completed.
6. Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand
- Program Overview: The LCH is designed as a lightweight, multi-role attack helicopter that can operate in high-altitude areas. It will be used for combat in challenging environments such as high-altitude warfare.
- Development Consortium:
- Lead Organization: HAL
- Co-Development: DRDO (weapon systems).
- Pricing: Estimated unit cost for the LCH is about ₹125 crore ($15 million).
- Rollout Dates:
- First flight: 2010, but full operational clearance is expected by 2024.
- Induction into service by 2024-2025.
7. HAL 19 Tonne Transport Aircraft
- Program Overview: A new 19-tonne-class medium transport aircraft is under development to replace aging fleets like the An-32. It will be used for military logistics and transport duties.
- Development Consortium:
- Lead Organization: HAL (design and manufacturing).
- Rollout Dates:
- The project is expected to enter the prototype phase by 2026, with production by 2028.
8. C-295 Transport Aircraft (Made in India)
- Program Overview: This program is a result of an agreement with Airbus Defence & Space. It will manufacture 56 C-295 aircraft in India, which will replace the aging Avro aircraft.
- Development Consortium:
- Lead Organization: HAL (assembly in India)
- Co-Manufacturer: Airbus Defence and Space.
- Pricing: The cost of the entire program is approximately ₹22,000 crore (around $3 billion).
- Rollout Dates:
- First delivery: Expected to start 2026.
- Completion of deliveries by 2032.
9. Future Vertical Lift (FVL) Program
- Program Overview: This program explores the development of advanced vertical lift technology, which could lead to the creation of next-generation helicopters and tiltrotors, potentially replacing current models like the Mi-17 and Dhruv.
- Development Consortium:
- Lead Organization: HAL in collaboration with global players for technology sharing.
- Co-Developers: DRDO, Indian private sector.
- Pricing: The price would depend on the specific design and technology chosen but would range from ₹500-1000 crore per unit.
- Rollout Dates:
- Early phase of the project: Expected first flight around 2027.
- Full-scale development expected by 2035.
10. Indo-Russian FGFA (Fifth-Generation Fighter Aircraft)
- Program Overview: India and Russia have discussed a collaborative fifth-generation fighter program, involving advanced stealth and avionics. While the project is in flux, a modified version of the Russian Su-57 could potentially be built for Indian requirements.
- Development Consortium:
- Lead Organization: HAL and Russian Aircraft Corporation.
- Rollout Dates:
- The first prototype could be rolled out around 2028, with production starting in the early 2030s.
11. Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV)
- Program Overview: The Ghatak UCAV is a stealthy autonomous drone designed to carry out precision strikes. It is part of DRDO’s larger push towards UAVs for surveillance and combat roles.
- Development Consortium:
- Lead Organization: DRDO
- Manufacturing: HAL and private sector aerospace companies.
- Rollout Dates:
- The first flight of the Ghatak UCAV is expected around 2027, with potential operational deployment post-2030.
The Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) is an indigenous multirole combat aircraft under development by India’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Designed to operate from aircraft carriers, the TEDBF aims to replace the aging MiG-29K fleet, enhancing the Indian Navy’s maritime air dominance.
Also Read, Understanding AURA UCAV Programme
Naval Role:
The TEDBF is intended to perform a multitude of missions, including air superiority, air interdiction, anti-access/area denial (A2/AD), anti-ship warfare (ASW), and electronic warfare (EW). It is expected to replace the Mikoyan MiG-29K onboard the INS Vikramaditya and the INS Vikrant.
Technological Features:
- Twin Engines: The aircraft features twin engines, enhancing reliability and performance, particularly in carrier-based operations.
- Stealth Design: Incorporating stealth features, the TEDBF is designed to reduce radar cross-section, improving survivability in contested environments.
- Maritime Adaptations: The design includes features tailored for maritime combat, such as robust landing gear for carrier operations and corrosion-resistant materials suitable for naval environments.
Strategic Context:
The TEDBF is a critical component of India’s naval aviation strategy, ensuring robust maritime air dominance. It is planned to populate squadrons alongside the 26 Rafale M fighters that India is set to acquire. The TEDBF program has achieved significant milestones, including clearance from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) expected in 2025.
The first flight of the TEDBF is now scheduled for 2029, with production expected to commence in 2033.
In summary, the TEDBF represents a significant advancement in India’s naval aviation capabilities, combining indigenous development with advanced technologies to meet the evolving demands of maritime warfare.
Conclusion
These programs represent the future of India’s air combat and aerospace capabilities. HAL, DRDO, and ADA continue to develop technologies ranging from fighter jets to advanced engines, transport aircraft, and even autonomous combat drones. The projected rollout and operationalization of these systems vary, but by the 2030s, India is expected to have a significantly enhanced indigenous aerospace portfolio.
