New Delhi, Nov 3 (NationPress) India is set to significantly advance its aerospace objectives with an impressive investment of approximately Rs 65,400 crore ($7.44 billion) aimed at developing and manufacturing fighter jet engines by 2035.

This initiative is designed to enhance India's self-sufficiency in a pivotal sector of defense — aircraft propulsion, as reported by the Times of Oman.

The initiative represents a substantial stride towards decreasing reliance on foreign imports and fostering the production of engines capable of powering the upcoming generation of Indian fighter jets.

India envisions the construction of around 1,100 engines over the next decade, which will support various aircraft from the advanced Tejas Mk2 to the stealthy AMCA, as well as upgraded fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Leading this ambitious project is S. V. Ramana Murthy, Director of the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), who is spearheading the effort to create indigenous engines that can compete on a global scale.

He emphasized the importance of establishing a robust ecosystem that integrates government research, private industry, and international collaboration.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is also preparing for this transformation, aiming to enhance its fleet to 42 squadrons by 2035 with approximately 450 new fighter jets, many of which may soon be powered by domestically produced engines.

This initiative is expected to not only enhance India's defense capabilities but also bolster confidence in its technological self-reliance.

A key project in this roadmap is the Tejas Mk2, which builds on the success of the current Tejas aircraft.

Discussions with the US-based General Electric regarding its F414 engine, along with a technology transfer agreement, are anticipated to facilitate the development of world-class engines in India.

India's indigenous Kaveri engine initiative, which has encountered delays previously, is now being revitalized with renewed energy, and its upgraded versions could soon power unmanned combat aerial vehicles, which are crucial for the country’s future defense strategy.

International partnerships will also play a significant role in this endeavor, with global engine manufacturers such as Safran from France, Rolls-Royce from Britain, and GE from the US engaged in discussions to co-develop a fifth-generation engine for India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), with the first prototype expected by 2028.

For the first time, India is inviting private enterprises to engage in fighter jet development, creating new opportunities for innovation and growth in the aerospace industry.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will collaborate with private and global partners to distribute the workload and enhance production.

In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), the government is actively promoting global defense manufacturers to establish production facilities within the country.

This shift signifies a transition from India being solely a buyer of defense technology to becoming a builder and partner in advanced manufacturing.

Experts argue that this extensive engine development program will not only fortify India's defense readiness but also stimulate the economy by generating jobs, promoting exports, and establishing India as a global contender in the aerospace sector.