In a landmark decision that signals a significant stride toward defence self-reliance, India has opted to collaborate with France for the joint development of a next-generation fighter aircraft engine. This major initiative, reported by the Economic Times, comes after months of technical assessments and stakeholder consultations. The ₹61,000 crore project will involve co-developing a 120 kN-class engine designed to power future Indian combat aircraft, including the highly anticipated AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft). The deal with French engine manufacturer Safran was chosen for its depth of technology transfer, which includes the sharing of core engineering expertise and full design rights—an unprecedented move in India’s aerospace history.
The engine program is structured to meet the developmental goals of the AMCA project, which aims to roll out five prototypes by 2026–27 and achieve serial production by 2035. India will require at least 250 engines to support the IAF’s seven AMCA squadrons, with the potential for additional naval variants. Under this collaboration, Indian private and public sector firms will gain valuable know-how in engine design, manufacturing, and maintenance, building a sustainable ecosystem. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s continued emphasis on indigenous capabilities has been pivotal in driving this initiative, as the nation looks to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and take control of its future in military propulsion technology.
