India and France Collaborate on Advanced Jet Engine Development

The Indian government is poised to approve a significant joint project between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and French aerospace company Safran to develop an advanced jet engine for the country’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The initiative focuses on the development and manufacturing of a 120-kilonewton engine in India, with a commitment to 100 percent technology transfer.

Senior officials indicate that the proposal will soon be presented to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final approval. This project is estimated to cost approximately $7 billion and will be executed in collaboration with DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE).

Strategic Importance of Indigenous Development

The announcement follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on the necessity of developing indigenous jet engines during his recent Independence Day speech. During a media event in Delhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing the proposal for building an indigenous fighter aircraft. He stated, “We have also moved towards manufacturing the aircraft’s engine in India itself. We are about to start engine manufacturing work in India with the French company Safran.”

The Defence Minister’s approval of the AMCA prototype design in May marked a crucial step towards enhancing India’s capabilities in developing advanced combat aircraft. This initiative positions India to join an elite group of nations, including the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, and France, which have the ability to design and produce their own aircraft engines.

Collaborative Efforts and Future Prospects

The project is expected to engage private companies such as the Tata Group, Adani Defence, and L&T, who will support the national effort in this high-tech domain. The development of the indigenous jet engine not only enhances military capabilities but also offers significant civilian applications, further strengthening the country’s technological landscape.

In addition, the Indian Navy is set to benefit from this collaboration, as the new engine will power its twin-engine deck-based fighter for aircraft carrier operations. The strategic move aligns with India’s broader goal of establishing a strong blue-water navy.

While China lacks the indigenous technology to manufacture aircraft engines and relies on Russian-made engines, India’s progress in this area will enhance its standing in the global defense arena. As the country moves forward with this ambitious project, it signals a commitment to self-reliance in defense technology and a significant leap towards becoming a key player in the aerospace industry.