The plan aims to make India self-reliant in one of the most critical areas of defence — aircraft propulsion, according to a Times of Oman report. The project marks a strong step towards reducing dependence on imports and building engines that can power the next generation of Indian fighter jets.

From the advanced Tejas Mk2 to the stealthy AMCA, and from upgraded fighters to unmanned aircraft, India plans to build around 1,100 engines in the next decade. S. V. Ramana Murthy, Director of the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), is leading the mission to build homegrown engines that can compete globally.

He said the focus is on creating a strong ecosystem that includes government research, private industry, and global partnerships. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is also preparing for this transformation. It aims to strengthen its fleet to 42 squadrons by 2035 with around 450 new fighter jets — many of which could soon fly on engines made in India.