The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is gearing up to approach the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for approval to kick-start one of India’s most ambitious aerospace initiatives: the joint development of a 120 kilonewton (kN) thrust class jet engine with French aerospace giant Safran.
The project, once cleared, will power India’s future air combat platforms, while addressing a longstanding gap in the country’s defence capabilities—indigenous aero-engine technology.
Full Technology Transfer
In a major departure from earlier collaborations, Safran has agreed to provide complete technology transfer. This includes access to critical know-how in single-crystal blade manufacturing, hot-section technology, high-pressure turbines, and digital engine control systems. Such core competencies have historically been closely guarded by global engine manufacturers.
Strategic Significance
The new engine is intended to equip India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), next-generation Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), and potential sixth-generation fighter projects. With its 120 kN thrust, the engine will enable features such as supercruise capability, stealth optimization, and longer combat endurance, marking a leap forward for indigenous aviation.
Currently, India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas program relies on American GE F404 and F414 engines, highlighting a vulnerability in propulsion self-reliance. This Indo-French collaboration seeks to bridge that gap permanently.
Economic and Industrial Impact
The financial outlay for the project is expected to run into several billion dollars, shared between the Government of India and Safran. Development will proceed in phases—covering design, ground testing, flight trials, and mass production in India.
Public sector aerospace units and private Indian defence firms are expected to be integrated into the program, creating a robust domestic supply chain and boosting India’s defence industrial base under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Towards Global Aero-Engine Elite
If executed successfully, this initiative would place India in the exclusive league of nations—like the US, UK, France, and Russia—that possess the capability to design, develop, and produce advanced fighter jet engines.
The CCS approval, expected soon, will formalize timelines, budgetary provisions, and contractual frameworks, paving the way for one of India’s most transformative defence technology partnerships.
