India is pushing forward with its goal of military self-reliance by developing an advanced indigenous naval fighter jet under the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) program. Designed as the maritime counterpart to the Air Forces Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), TEDBF represents a major step toward modernizing the Indian Navy’s aerial capabilities. Developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with the Indian Navy, the aircraft is expected to replace the aging MiG-29K fleet and could evolve into a fifth-generation stealth jet, depending on the integration of stealth technologies.

The project is currently in its Critical Design Review phase and aims for a prototype by 2030, a first flight in 2032, and induction by 2036, pending final funding approval. TEDBF is being designed for carrier-based operations and will feature folding wings to save space on aircraft carriers. If it incorporates fifth-generation attributes, the jet will have stealth features, advanced avionics, and superior agility. These developments aim to align TEDBF’s capabilities with global standards and enable the Indian Navy to operate effectively in high-threat environments.

TEDBF is expected to use GE F414 engines initially, with a potential shift to a more powerful indigenous engine in the future. It will support a variety of mission profiles, including air superiority and anti-ship roles, with a top speed of Mach 1.6 and a combat radius of 1,000 kilometers. Its internal weapons bay will allow it to carry precision-guided munitions while maintaining a low radar signature. These capabilities would give India a strategic edge in the Indian Ocean, especially in the face of growing regional competition from countries like China and the U.S.

The program is closely tied to the AMCA project, which has already received significant government funding and is advancing on a parallel track. By sharing technologies such as stealth design and engine systems, TEDBF development could be accelerated and streamlined. Despite challenges like adapting stealth features to the rigors of carrier operations and maintaining structural integrity with folding wings, TEDBF reflects India’s ambition to become a leader in indigenous defense technologies. If successful, it will position India among a select few nations capable of producing fifth-generation naval fighters.

Disclaimer: This Image is taken from the Hindustan Times.