India’s Ministry of Defence is set to take a transformative step in advancing its self-reliance in aerospace technology by recommending a strategic partnership with France for the co-development of next-generation fighter jet engines. The project, valued at ₹61,000 crore, is seen as a major milestone in India’s defense manufacturing journey and is expected to significantly enhance the nation’s capabilities in engine design, advanced manufacturing, and cutting-edge propulsion systems. After rigorous evaluation of multiple international proposals, France emerged as the preferred collaborator due to its commitment to full technology transfer and long-term industrial cooperation. This engine, with a thrust class of 120 kilonewtons (kN), will primarily power the upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), the flagship of India’s next-generation combat fleet.
The engine development is being aligned with the AMCA’s own timeline, which includes the rollout of five prototypes by 2026–27, a maiden flight in 2028, and serial production expected by 2035. Approximately 250 engines will be needed to equip around 126 AMCA jets across seven IAF squadrons, with a possible variant also planned for the Indian Navy. The collaboration with France’s Safran not only promises full-scale production in India but also emphasizes the transfer of core design and maintenance capabilities. Spearheaded by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s vision for a self-reliant defense sector, this project is a vital step toward building a strong domestic aerospace ecosystem that will allow Indian industry players to contribute meaningfully to global jet engine manufacturing.
