Tejas vs AMCA: India’s Fighter Jet Evolution
India’s defence aviation industry is undergoing a historic transformation. From the lightweight HAL Tejas to the ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), the journey reflects the evolution of India’s fighter jet capabilities. This article compares the Tejas and AMCA, highlighting their roles, features, and importance to the Indian Air Force.
HAL Tejas: India’s 4.5th Generation Fighter
The HAL Tejas is a lightweight multirole fighter developed to replace the aging MiG-21 fleet. It features advanced avionics, fly-by-wire controls, and is powered by the GE F404/F414 engine. With upgrades such as the Uttam AESA radar, Tejas has proven its reliability and versatility.
AMCA: India’s 5th Generation Stealth Fighter
The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) represents India’s leap into fifth-generation technology. Designed with stealth, supercruise capability, and advanced sensor fusion, it is expected to serve as a deep-strike, air dominance, and multirole fighter.
Tejas vs AMCA: Key Comparison
| Feature | HAL Tejas | AMCA (Planned) |
|---|---|---|
| Generation | 4.5th Gen | 5th Gen |
| First Flight | 2001 | ~2025 (Est.) |
| Role | Lightweight multirole | Stealth multirole, deep strike |
| Engines | Single (F404/F414) | Twin (F414 / Indigenous) |
| Speed | Mach 1.8 | Mach 2+ |
| Range | ~1,850 km | ~1,000 km combat radius |
| Stealth | Limited RCS reduction | Full stealth design |
| Avionics | Uttam AESA, fly-by-wire | Next-gen avionics, sensor fusion |
| Weapons | Astra, Python-5, Derby | Astra Mk2/3, BrahMos-NG, PGMs |
Conclusion
The Tejas and AMCA are not rivals but successive steps in India’s fighter jet journey. Tejas strengthens the IAF’s current capabilities, while AMCA is designed for the future battlefield dominated by stealth and advanced electronic warfare. Together, they symbolize India’s self-reliance in aerospace and defence technology.
👉 Read more about India’s AMCA Program and HAL’s Fighter Jet Production Journey.
