In this week’s episode of Defence Mantra, on viewer request, we discuss India’s pursuit of indigenous aero engine technology, which has been a significant aspect of its defence and aerospace strategy.
You might remember that the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) initiated the Kaveri engine project in the 1990s to power the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. However, the Kaveri engine did not meet the required thrust levels for the Tejas, leading to its discontinuation for this application.
Reiterating the significance of the aero engine program for India’s overall defence and aerospace capabilities, we discuss the challenges faced in developing indigenous aero engine capabilities, which include:
- Technological Complexity: Designing and manufacturing advanced jet engines require sophisticated technology and expertise, which India has been developing over time.
- Material Science Limitations: Developing materials that can withstand extreme conditions within jet engines has been a significant hurdle.
- Testing Infrastructure: Limited access to advanced testing facilities has delayed progress. For instance, the lack of such facilities in India necessitated conducting high-altitude tests in Russia.
To overcome these challenges, India has been exploring collaborations with international partners.
General Electric (GE) announced its readiness to supply F414 engines for the forthcoming Tejas Mk2, including potential joint production in India. Additionally, companies like Rolls-Royce and Safran have expressed interest in co-developing bespoke engines with India, offering full transfer of intellectual property to support India’s goal of self-reliance in defence technology.
India’s aero engine development will surely fit into the broader context of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in defence.
As Aero India approaches, it presents an opportune moment for India to focus on advancing its aero engine program.
Emphasising research and development, enhancing testing infrastructure, and fostering international collaborations will be crucial steps toward achieving self-reliance in this critical technology domain.
Editor-in-Chief Nitin A. Gokhale feels that 2025 will be the year in which the significant decision of the manufacture of the aero-engine will be taken.
