India's Ambitious Plan to Develop Fighter Jet Engines by 2035
Major Investment in Aerospace Sector
New Delhi, Nov 4: India is poised to significantly enhance its aerospace capabilities with a substantial investment of approximately ₹65,400 crores ($7.44 billion) aimed at the development and production of fighter jet engines by the year 2035. This initiative is designed to foster self-reliance in a crucial segment of defense aircraft propulsion, as reported by a regional news outlet.
This project marks a pivotal move towards minimizing reliance on foreign imports and aims to produce engines that will power the next generation of Indian fighter jets. The plan includes the manufacturing of around 1,100 engines over the next decade, catering to advanced models like the Tejas Mk2, the stealthy AMCA, and upgraded fighters, as well as unmanned aerial vehicles.
S. V. Ramana Murthy, who heads the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), is at the forefront of this initiative to create indigenous engines that can compete on a global scale. He highlighted the importance of establishing a robust ecosystem that integrates government research, private sector involvement, and international partnerships.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is gearing up for this transformation, with plans to expand its fleet to 42 squadrons by 2035, which will include around 450 new fighter jets, many of which are expected to be powered by domestically manufactured engines. This initiative is anticipated to bolster India's defense capabilities and enhance confidence in technological independence.
A significant aspect of this roadmap is the Tejas Mk2, which builds on the achievements of the current Tejas aircraft. Negotiations with General Electric in the US regarding its F414 engine, along with a technology transfer agreement, are expected to facilitate the domestic production of high-quality engines.
The indigenous Kaveri engine program, which has experienced delays, is being revitalized with a renewed emphasis. Upgraded versions of this engine could soon be utilized in unmanned combat aircraft, a vital element of India's future defense strategy.
International partnerships are crucial to this endeavor. Engine manufacturers such as France's Safran, Britain's Rolls-Royce, and the US-based GE are engaged in discussions to collaboratively develop a fifth-generation engine for India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), with the first prototype anticipated by 2028.
For the first time, India is inviting private enterprises to engage in fighter jet development, creating new avenues for innovation and growth within the aerospace industry. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will collaborate with both private and international entities to distribute workloads and enhance production capabilities.
In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', the government is encouraging global defense manufacturers to establish production facilities in India. This shift signifies a transition from being merely a consumer of defense technology to becoming a creator and collaborator in advanced manufacturing.
Experts believe that this ambitious engine development initiative will not only fortify India's defense preparedness but also drive economic growth by generating employment, boosting exports, and positioning India as a significant player in the global aerospace arena.