India and France will jointly develop an indigenous fifth-generation stealth jet engine. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the project. DRDO and Safran will handle technology transfer.
Jet Engine: Following the announcement of heavy tariffs on India by US President Donald Trump, India has shifted its strategy, planning to develop an indigenous fifth-generation stealth jet engine in collaboration with France. This move comes amidst ongoing tensions between India and the US and is seen as a strategic decision. India aims to strengthen its air force capabilities through indigenous technology, and this initiative will promote both India's defense and technological independence.
France will transfer 100 percent technology
According to sources, French company Safran will transfer 100 percent of the technology to India in this project. Both countries will jointly manufacture an engine with 120 kilonewtons of thrust. DRDO has approved Safran's proposal because the company has demonstrated prior experience in manufacturing helicopters and other aircraft in India. DRDO's Gas Turbine Research Establishment lab will also be involved in this project. The estimated cost of the entire project is approximately $7 billion.
DRDO and AMCA Project
DRDO stated that Safran is a suitable option for the fifth-generation fighter aircraft AMCA. With the development of this engine, India is taking a step towards making the AMCA aircraft completely indigenous. This project is a crucial part of India's ambition to become self-reliant in the technology and defense sectors. Through this, India will not only empower its air force but also strengthen its technological foothold internationally.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's Approval
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved this ambitious project. He stated that India needs to develop indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft, and this step is crucial for the country's security and the strengthening of the air force. The Defence Minister also said that India has taken an unprecedented step in the direction of fighter jet manufacturing, which will meet the needs of the Air Force in the coming years.
Air Force's Need
Recently, the Air Force wrote a letter to the Ministry of Defence, stating that several aircraft are due to retire in the coming years. In this situation, the need for new aircraft and engines is extremely important. The development of an indigenous fifth-generation jet engine will not only meet the future needs of the Air Force but also reduce dependence on foreign technology.
