Not just a deal, a direction is being decided
There is a hush-hush activity going on in India’s defense industry these days. News is coming from inside sources that India and France are preparing to jointly develop the next generation fighter jet engine. Now this is not an ordinary arms deal – this is like laying the foundation of technological self-reliance.
The Indian Government has given nearly₹61,000 crorehas given approval to pursue a mega project worth Rs 10 lakh crore in which a French companySafrantogether with a120 Kilo Newton ClassAn advanced engine of 1000 cc will be made. It will be used in India’s future fighter jets –AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft)It will be done in.
New hope replaces old failure
To be honest, India has tried this before. In the 1980s, DRDO started the “Kaveri Engine” project, but even after 40 years, that engine could not be made capable of flying fighter aircraft. Technology, material science, temperature control – something or the other remained incomplete everywhere.
Now that an experienced country like France is coming on board, it is hoped that this time India will not just assemble the parts – it will understand the engine from heart to mind, manufacture it and perhaps even export it.
Why France? And why now?
If we look closely, India’s relationship with France is not new. Be it Mirage-2000 or Rafale, whenever India has needed them, France has supported them.
But this time Safran is not just selling engines, butComplete technology transferYes, not just manufacturing—but also “core technology”, R&D documents, material composition, and even training of Indian engineers are being discussed.
If this happens, then it will be the first time that India will require an engineComplete TechnologyYou will get it—just not the screwdriver assembly.
The journey beyond the engine: A strategic signal
This deal is not just about fighter planes, it is a clear message – that India now wants to stand on its own feet.
Today, when China is increasing its power, US policies can change at any time and Russia is in its own troubles – India needs partners who are trustworthy and also transparent in technology.
France is giving that assurance. And this proposal with Safran can bring India into the “engine technology club” where currently there are only 4-5 countries.
Obstacles will not decrease
Now if we talk a little about the truth, it won’t be that easy.
Making a fighter jet engine is not just about assembling parts. It requires material technology that does not melt even at 1600°C temperature. Every small part, every thrust level, every balance—everything must be absolutely precise.
DRDO and HAL will have to be upgraded, but India’s private aerospace industry will also have to work shoulder to shoulder in this mission.
And if it’s successful, then…?
So imagine, after 2030, India’s fighter aircraft—AMCA, TEDBF, or any UAV—will all fly with engines made in India. And not just for itself—they will be sold to other countries as well.
It will not just be Make in India, it will be “Design in India, Innovate in India, Take-off from India।”
What matters most is…
The most touching thing in this entire news is India’s perspective. Now we don’t want to be just “buyers”—weManufacturerWant to become.
If this deal is finalised and Safran indeed shares the core technology, India may never have to look outside for a jet engine in the coming decades.
What is the status so far?
- The Government of India has approved funding of ₹61,000 crore.
- Safran has been selected as the partner and the engine is being designed as per AMCA.
- No final MoU has been signed yet, but talks are in the final stages.
Last thing: Will this dream take flight?
If not today, then tomorrow, India will have to take this step. Be it with Safran or with someone else. But one thing is clear—India is not going to stop now.
If this deal is finalised, then in the coming decade when the first Indian AMCA flies on its own engine – it will not be just a jet. It will be the loudest slogan of self-reliant India – in the sky, at full speed.
