India is evaluating participation in one of two European sixth-generation fighter programs, the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) led by the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan, or the Franco-German-led Future Combat Air System (FCAS), also known as SCAF. On March 18, 2026, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan confirmed the interest, citing capability gaps and delays in India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program.
The Indian Air Force operates about 29 fighter squadrons against a required 42, hampered by ageing aircraft retirements like the MiG-21, delays in Tejas Mk1A, and stalled Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft procurement. China fields operational stealth fighters J-20 and J-35, plus testing of sixth-generation J-36 and J-50 prototypes, widening the gap. India targets 42 squadrons by 2035 but projects only 35-36 under current plans.
AMCA design is complete, with five prototypes and first flight slated for 2029, production from 2035 for 120 aircraft funded at ₹15,000 crore ($1.65 billion), initially using imported F-414 engines. Still, planners seek GCAP or FCAS involvement for networked systems integrating manned fighters, drones, AI, and sensors to maintain superiority post-2035. GCAP aims for mid-2030s service with adaptive propulsion and combat cloud; FCAS targets 2040 amid industrial tensions. Prior Japan talks and France ties could facilitate entry.