AMCA will match IAF's needs

INTERVIEW Girish S. Deodhare director general, Aeronautical Development Agency

- PRADIP R. SAGAR

Q/ How does the AMCA compare with its competitors?

A/ The AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) is not a copy of any aircraft. It was designed to match the Indian Air Force’s requirements. It is a fifth-generation fighter and one of the few in that category. It will not be right to compare it with any other aircraft. For example, the F-35 is much bigger and heavier. But, the AMCA’s technology and capabilities will be at par with any other fifth-generation fighter in the world.

Q/ What lessons did you learn from the Tejas project?

A/ Tejas is not just a programme, but the development of a complete ecosystem. It has been a learning exercise because it was our first venture into 4.5-generation combat aircraft. In Tejas, all core technologies were developed indigenously. We have realised that we need to involve all stakeholders right from the beginning. During the development of Tejas, we were focused on proving the technologies and flying capability, and ignored the maintenance part. Flyers and ground staff are equally important. Ground support equipment like trolleys and weapon-loading platforms have to be factored in at the design phase. It cannot happen at the end. In the AMCA, even before the aircraft is ready, all these areas have been addressed and are on track.

Q/ The AMCA is projected as a fighter for the next 30 years of war. Why?

A/ It is designed for future upgrades as its architecture allows it to incorporate new systems easily. Its basic airframe is stealth- and future-friendly. Avionics, sensors and radars can be upgraded when required. Normally, the shelf life of an aircraft is 30 years, and the AMCA is designed to take care of upgrades for that period.