India is advancing its indigenous military aviation capabilities with major defense companies including Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Tata Advanced Systems, Adani Defence, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), and Kalyani Strategic Systems submitting bids by the deadline of September 30, 2025, for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project. The AMCA, overseen by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is a fifth-generation stealth multi-role fighter jet featuring supercruise ability and AI integration. This ₹15,000 crore program aims to develop and build five prototypes, with a planned order of about 120 aircraft targeted for induction into the Indian Air Force by 2035-36. The Defence Ministry, closely involved since the Cabinet Committee on Security’s approval in 2024, will make the final selection based on recommendations from a committee led by former BrahMos Aerospace chief Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai. The project marks a significant milestone in India’s push for self-reliance under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative by fostering a competitive environment between public and private sector firms. The AMCA is expected to secure India’s position among the few countries capable of developing advanced stealth fighters, enhancing its regional security and defense manufacturing prowess. Production readiness and prototype development are slated for completion within eight years of contract signing. This effort is strategically important as India aims to replace foreign platforms with domestic cutting-edge technology in its air power fleet.