The Indian Navy’s preference for the Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) over the navalized Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (N-AMCA) stems from operational and environmental considerations. The TEDBF is specifically designed for harsh marine conditions, ensuring higher availability and reduced maintenance challenges compared to the stealth-focused N-AMCA, which would struggle in such environments. The Navy aims to replace its aging MiG-29K fleet with 80 TEDBF units by the late 2030s while planning for a future CATOBAR AMCA variant for larger carriers. This dual approach allows the Navy to balance immediate operational needs with long-term strategic capabilities, particularly against evolving threats like China’s J-35.