New Delhi: India is set to allocate around Rs 65,400 crore (approximately $7.44 billion) towards the development and production of indigenous fighter jet engines by the year 2035. This initiative represents a significant stride towards achieving self-sufficiency in defence aerospace technology.

The objective of this initiative is to ensure that India becomes self-reliant in a crucial aspect of defence—aircraft propulsion, as reported by a regional news outlet.

This project is a pivotal move aimed at decreasing reliance on foreign imports while creating engines capable of powering the next generation of Indian fighter aircraft.

India plans to manufacture about 1,100 engines over the next decade, catering to advanced models like the Tejas Mk2, the stealthy AMCA, upgraded fighter jets, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

SV Ramana Murthy, the Director of the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), is spearheading the initiative to develop domestically produced engines that can compete on a global scale.

He emphasized the importance of establishing a robust ecosystem that integrates government research, private sector involvement, and international collaborations.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is also gearing up for this transformation, aiming to enhance its fleet to 42 squadrons by 2035, which will include around 450 new fighter jets—many of which may soon be powered by engines manufactured in India.

This development is expected to not only enhance India’s defence capabilities but also bolster its confidence in achieving technological independence.

A key project within this framework is the Tejas Mk2, which builds on the success of the existing Tejas aircraft.

Discussions with General Electric in the United States regarding its F414 engine, along with a technology transfer agreement, are anticipated to facilitate the domestic production of world-class engines.

India's indigenous Kaveri engine program, which has encountered delays previously, is now being revitalized with renewed vigor. Its upgraded variants could soon be utilized in unmanned combat aircraft, a vital component of the nation’s future defence strategy.

International partnerships will also be crucial in this endeavor. Global engine manufacturers such as France’s Safran, Britain’s Rolls-Royce, and the US’s GE are in talks 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 avenues for innovation and growth within the aerospace sector.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will collaborate with both private and international entities to distribute the workload and enhance production capabilities.

Under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), the government is actively promoting global defence manufacturers to establish production bases in India.

This initiative marks a significant transition—from India being primarily a consumer of defence technology to evolving into a producer and collaborator in advanced manufacturing.

Experts believe that this extensive engine development program will not only fortify India’s defence preparedness but also stimulate economic growth by generating employment, boosting exports, and positioning India as a key player in the global aerospace industry.