The development process has been ongoing since 2009.
The creation of a cutting-edge stealth-technology fighter aircraft has reached its final stages, positioning India to commence operational testing of this prototype aircraft, as reported by Sarbaz.kz.
According to sources, the comprehensive engineering development of the twin-engine combat aircraft, weighing 25 tons, will soon be submitted for review to a security committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The project entails the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) fabricating five prototypes of fifth-generation aircraft, conducting flight tests, and facilitating operational deployment.
Initial projections indicate that the first prototype will be unveiled four years after project approval, with mass production potentially commencing six years thereafter.
This endeavor contradicts prevalent speculations of India's intent to procure American F-35A fighter jets.
As per media accounts, the fifth-generation aircraft prototype has been under Indian development since 2009, with the aircraft's configuration aligned to Air Force specifications by 2015.
Formerly noted by Indian Air Force Deputy Chief of Air Staff Vice Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, Indian aerospace engineers successfully expedited the construction of the stealth aircraft. The estimated cost of the project stands at approximately $1.8 billion.
