India is exploring participation in Europe’s sixth-generation fighter aircraft programs as part of its long-term strategy to access next-generation air combat technologies. The Ministry of Defence has expressed interest in collaborating with either the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) or the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), aiming to strengthen future capabilities beyond current fifth-generation platforms. While such partnerships could provide access to advanced technologies in stealth, artificial intelligence, and network-centric warfare, India continues to prioritize the indigenous AMCA program as the foundation of its future air power. Alongside manned fighters, the country is also investing in collaborative combat aircraft and unmanned combat systems to support next-generation operational concepts.
