During a visit to DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment in Bengaluru, the minister reviewed the status of ongoing indigenous engine projects and urged scientists to compress timelines, given the strategic needs of the nation.
He noted that a joint study is being conducted with the UK for aero engine development, while the process with France has already been initiated. He was referring to the French partnership for development of 120 kilonewton engines that would be used for the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA) programme.
“You are conducting a joint study with the UK for aero engine development. This is a very good initiative. Besides this, with France also, we have started the process for aero engines under the National Aero Engine Mission,” he said, adding that the collaboration will “not only give us the opportunity to learn new technologies but will also help us understand challenges they have faced in the past decades”.
Singh said there have been numerous attempts in the past to develop indigenous aero engines and the time has now come to complete the efforts. He also urged scientists to look beyond fifth-generation fighter jet engines. “We must begin the development of sixth-generation, advanced technologies as soon as possible.”
As reported by ET, the defence ministry has recommended a collaboration with France to develop next-generation fighter jet engines, marking a breakthrough for the mega project that will bring advanced manufacturing and design technologies, and is a key step towards self-reliance. Under the estimated ₹61,000 crore project, India will jointly develop a 120kn fighter jet engine that will be used for future platforms, including the AMCA.
