New Delhi, Feb 12 (NationPress) The prestigious automobile manufacturer Rolls-Royce announced on Thursday its plans to enhance its operations in India, aiming to bolster future projects and collaborations in the sectors of defence, civil aviation, and energy.

The company is on the lookout for opportunities to co-create a cutting-edge combat jet engine while localizing engine production for the Indian Army, Navy, and Coast Guard. Additionally, there are prospects for power solutions tailored for critical infrastructure and industries, per the official statement.

Such initiatives could potentially increase the workforce supporting Rolls-Royce and its partners to around 10,000 employees in India.

“As India strengthens its next-generation military capabilities, Rolls-Royce, in collaboration with the UK Government, has proposed to co-develop a 120 kN class combat jet engine core, which could be the quickest path for India to achieve an indigenous next-generation engine,” stated the company.

Rolls-Royce emphasized that this co-development will include comprehensive technology transfer with intellectual property ownership for India, supported by a specialized design complex and manufacturing facilities that promise substantial job creation.

The firm also anticipates a ten-fold rise in its supply-chain sourcing from India, which would greatly benefit numerous small and medium-sized enterprises.

“We are committed to partnering with India on its Atmanirbhar journey by fostering indigenous propulsion capabilities, supplying sustained power to critical infrastructure and industries, and enhancing local manufacturing for global supply chains,” remarked Tufan Erginbilgic, CEO of Rolls-Royce.

“As we elevate our involvement in various programs across India’s defence, aviation, and energy sectors, we will broaden our ecosystem in India, mirroring our successful expansions in other countries,” Tufan added.

Currently, over 1,400 Rolls-Royce engines are in operation across various defence platforms, including the Jaguar combat aircraft and Hawk trainers of the Indian Air Force and Navy; the Arjun Main Battle Tanks of the Army, along with a range of vessels and submarines of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, encompassing the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Watercraft and the P17 Alpha frigates.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Erginbilgic, expressing the government's support for the luxury automaker’s initiative to expand its activities in India.

“We welcome Rolls-Royce’s enthusiasm towards scaling up its activities in India and collaborating with our innovative and dynamic youth,” PM Modi stated in an X post.

aar/na