Is the Govt Set to Finalize India’s Fighter Jet Engine Project with France Soon?
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Synopsis
The Indian government is on the verge of finalizing a significant agreement with France to produce advanced jet engines for its indigenous fighter aircraft. This pivotal move aims to bolster India's defense capabilities and technological independence, positioning the nation among the elite in aircraft engine production.
Key Takeaways
- Final Approval: The government is about to finalize the joint project with France for advanced jet engine development.
- Indigenous Production: The initiative emphasizes self-reliance in defense technology.
- Significant Cost: The projected investment in the project is around $7 billion.
- Technological Advancement: This project aims to produce advanced 120-kilonewton engines in India.
- Global Standing: India will join the ranks of nations with the capability to produce its own aircraft engines.
New Delhi, Sep 11 (NationPress) The Central government is poised to grant the final approval shortly for a collaborative initiative between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the renowned French aerospace firm Safran to create and manufacture an advanced jet engine tailored for India's homegrown fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
This engine initiative, featuring a complete transfer of technology, aims to design and produce cutting-edge 120-kilonewton engines within India for the twin-engine Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and future military platforms.
According to high-ranking officials, DRDO is set to present the proposal to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for final endorsement. The new engine initiative, to be carried out in collaboration with DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), is projected to cost approximately $7 billion.
This development closely follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's emphasis on the significance of self-sufficient jet engine production during his Independence Day address.
Recently, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also indicated that the government is progressing with the plan to develop an indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
“We have initiated the path towards manufacturing the aircraft’s engine locally. We are on the verge of commencing engine production in India in partnership with Safran,” Singh stated at a press conference in Delhi.
In May, the Defence Minister approved the prototype design for the AMCA, marking a pivotal advancement in India’s capability to produce sophisticated combat aircraft domestically.
PM Modi's strong advocacy for a self-reliant aircraft engine stems from its high-level defense technology, which holds considerable civilian applications. Private enterprises such as the Tata Group, Adani Defence, and L&T are also expected to contribute significantly to this national endeavor.
This project will elevate India to the prestigious group of countries that include the US, Russia, UK, and France, all of which possess the capability to design, develop, and manufacture their own aircraft engines. Notably, China lacks indigenous technology for aircraft engine production, relying instead on Russian engines or reverse-engineered alternatives for its frontline fighter jets.
Additionally, the Indian Navy will benefit from a twin-engine deck-based fighter powered by the more robust Safran-GTRE jet engine, enhancing its aircraft carrier strike capability as the nation advances its blue-water strategy.
Point of View
I firmly believe that India's push towards indigenous defense capabilities reflects a commitment to self-reliance. This initiative not only strengthens our military prowess but also fosters technological advancements that can benefit various civilian sectors. The collaboration with Safran signifies a strategic step in achieving these goals, reinforcing India’s position on the global defense stage.
NationPress
12/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the joint project?
The joint project between DRDO and Safran aims to develop advanced jet engines domestically, enhancing India's defense capabilities and technological independence.
How much will the project cost?
The estimated cost of the project is approximately $7 billion.
What are the expected outcomes of this initiative?
This initiative is expected to lead to the production of advanced 120-kilonewton engines in India, enhancing the capabilities of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft and other future platforms.
Who are the private companies involved?
Private companies such as Tata Group, Adani Defence, and L&T are expected to contribute to the national effort in developing the aircraft engine.
What is India’s position in global aircraft engine production?
With this project, India will join an elite group of nations capable of designing and manufacturing their own aircraft engines, alongside the US, Russia, UK, and France.
