India targets sixth-generation fighter jet development

India is pursuing the development of sixth-generation fighter jets as part of a long-term strategy to build indigenous defence capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that the nation is focusing on domestic technology for warfare over the next 10 to 25 years, emphasizing electronic warfare, artificial intelligence, drones, and autonomous systems.

While India works toward these future capabilities, the government has not yet decided whether to purchase foreign fifth-generation aircraft, such as Russia’s Su-57, to address current gaps. The indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme remains the primary focus, with the first prototype expected to fly in September 2028. Notably, state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) did not qualify to build AMCA prototypes due to technical grounds, leading the Defence Ministry to open aircraft manufacturing to the private sector.

India’s defence exports have seen significant growth, rising from ₹686 crore in 2013-14 to ₹38,424 crore in 2025-26, with a target of ₹50,000 crore by 2029.