Fifth-generation fighter AMCA, LCA Tejas Mark-2 priority for govt, says Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh dubbed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, Light Utility Helicopter Prachand, Akash and BrahMos Air Defence weapons as shining examples of the capability of Indian designers, engineers and scientists.

Delivering a memorial lecture on the Marshal of the Indian Air Force (IAF) Arjan Singh, the minister said aero-engine development is a priority area of the government in view of the needs of the IAF. The government, according to him, is paying special attention to the development of fifth-generation fighter aircraft (the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft or AMCA) and LCA Mark-2.

ALSO READ: 'F-35s will give IAF strength to protect India's air space like never before': JD Vance renews stealth jet pitch

He said the effort is to make the engine in India on the model of co-development and co-production with full intellectual property rights.

The defence minister hailed the self-reliance achieved in the air defence systems, including Astra Mark-2, Pralay, SMART, anti-field weapon, NG Anti-radiation missile, and Very Short Range Air Defence System, that are at various stages of production and development.

Today, not only has there been unparalleled growth in defence manufacturing in the public sector, the private sector is also participating with great enthusiasm, Singh said, adding, "As the field of defence production is becoming technology-oriented, the role of start-ups and MSMEs is also increasing rapidly. These are proving to be the backbone of defence innovation. In the times to come, the role of the private sector, start-ups and MSMEs in high-tech warfare is going to increase even more."

He emphasised that the government’s thrust is on transforming the country's armed forces on the back of a self-reliant defence ecosystem.

Defence