India may soon approve a major defence project with French firm Safran S.A. and Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a lab under DRDO. The two will jointly design and develop a 120 kiloNewton jet engine to power India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
This move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day speech, called for indigenous jet engine development. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has also confirmed that India is ready to take on this critical challenge.
Safran-GTRE to Build Nine Prototypes
The proposed project will see nine engine prototypes developed over the next 12 years. The first engines will deliver 120 KN power, but capacity will later rise to 140 KN.
The deal includes a 100% transfer of technology (ToT) from Safran to DRDO, and covers advanced technologies such as single-crystal blade technology, crucial for high performance under extreme heat and stress. While DRDO has worked on jet engine technology earlier, adapting it for high-powered fighter aircraft remains a big leap.
Strategic Importance of the Project
The AMCA fighter jet will be built by India’s private defence industry, with groups like Tata, L&T, and Adani Defence expected to play major roles. The new Safran-GTRE engine will not only power AMCA but also support the Indian Navy’s twin-engine deck-based fighter jets for aircraft carriers.
Experts say this project will give India a strategic edge, making the country less dependent on foreign suppliers. France’s reliability as a defence partner is also a major factor. Unlike the US, France has never imposed sanctions on India, even after the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests.
Why India Chose France Over the US
Currently, India uses GE’s F-404 and F-414 engines for its Tejas and upcoming fighters. But the US offer includes only 70% technology transfer, leaving India dependent.
On the other hand, France has shown readiness to transfer 100% technology. India’s defence experts also highlight France’s consistent support, including providing Mirage-2000 spare parts and INGPS systems, even during sanctions.
Impact on India’s Defence Future
The project could reshape India’s defence capabilities. Countries like the US, Russia, UK, and France already design their own engines. Even China still relies on Russian or reverse-engineered engines.
India’s earlier attempt, the Kaveri engine project, failed to meet requirements. But with France’s support, India now has a chance to develop its own world-class fighter jet engine.
With the 120-140 KN engine, India will power its next-generation fighters for decades. This will give the Indian Air Force and Navy stronger independence and global reach.
