In a landmark achievement for India's defense sector, French aerospace giant Safran has agreed to a complete technology transfer to India for the development of a cutting-edge fighter jet engine. This agreement, finalized between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Safran, positions India among a select few nations with the capability to design and manufacture advanced aircraft engines.
The core of the agreement involves the co-development of a next-generation fighter jet engine in the 120-140 kN thrust class. Valued at approximately ₹61,000 crore ($7 billion), this ambitious Indo-French project signifies a major leap towards "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) in defense technology. The engine is intended to power future combat platforms, including the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) MK-2, India's indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter jet.
Safran's offer of 100% technology transfer was a decisive factor in India's selection, edging out competitors like Rolls-Royce. This transfer includes critical technologies such as the manufacturing of advanced single-crystal turbine blades and high-temperature hot-section components, considered the "holy grail" of modern fighter engine design. Under the agreement, the new engine will be developed with complete Indian Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), ensuring sovereign control over core propulsion technologies. This places India on a path to strategic independence in a domain historically dominated by a handful of nations.
The engine is designed to deliver:
- 120–140 kN thrust class
- Supercruise capability (sustained supersonic flight without afterburner)
- Enhanced fuel efficiency
- Lower infrared signature for stealth
- High reliability at extreme temperatures
These capabilities will significantly boost the AMCA's endurance, survivability, and combat reach. The collaboration also involves creating a comprehensive engine development and manufacturing ecosystem in India, extending beyond the AMCA program. The partnership is expected to produce five prototype engines, with flight testing targeted around 2028, followed by certification expected by 2032, and full-scale serial production from approximately 2035 onwards.
This collaboration marks a turning point in India's aerospace history, on par with the nuclear program and space launch vehicle achievements. The DRDO-Safran engine deal is expected to reshape India's aerospace landscape for generations, placing the country on a firm path toward propulsion self-reliance and setting the foundation for future combat aviation leadership.
