CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -Development. Following the success of the BrahMos project, Russia and India agreed in early 2007 to jointly study and develop a Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) programme. On 11 September 2010, it was reported that India and Russia had agreed on a preliminary design contract, subject to Cabinet approval.

Detailed explanation-2: -Russia unveiled a prototype of the single-engine Sukhoi Su-75 Checkmate Light Tactical Aircraft in July 2021 at the biennial MAKS (air show), with maiden flight initially expected in 2023 (subsequently delayed to at least 2024).

Detailed explanation-3: -Some 20 years after their first appearance in the skies, fifth-generation fighters remain both the most advanced and rarest aircraft in service. Only four models from three countries-the US’s F-22 and F-35, China’s J-20, and Russia’s Su-57-have been officially introduced.

Detailed explanation-4: -The AMCA design is optimised for low radar cross section and supercruise capability. Feasibility study on AMCA and the preliminary design stage have been completed, and the project entered the detailed design phase in February 2019. The AMCA is currently the only 5th generation fighter under development in India.

Detailed explanation-5: -By this estimate, India’s first 5th-gen fighter jet prototype will take flight by 2028. The AMCA will be a 25-tonne, twin-engine stealth fighter jet with an internal weapons bay. In fact, Ghosh was quoted as saying that the AMCA will be comparable to other global fifth generation fighter jets.