In a significant advancement for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) recently showcased early composite panels designed for the nation’s fifth-generation stealth fighter. These panels, developed in collaboration with private firms, feature a high composite content aimed at enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing radar signatures. The AMCA program, initiated in May 2025, anticipates its first prototype flight by 2029. This progress is crucial as India seeks to bolster its aerial combat capabilities amid regional threats, particularly from advanced Chinese aircraft. The successful development of these panels not only reflects India’s growing expertise in aerospace materials but also underscores the potential for a thriving domestic defense ecosystem, enhancing national security and technological self-reliance.