India and France Collaborate to Develop Advanced Fighter Jet Engines

On August 23, 2025, India announced a significant partnership with French aerospace giant Safran to co-develop and manufacture advanced engines for its fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed this collaboration, highlighting it as a key step in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense technology.

The joint venture between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Safran aims to produce a 120-kilonewton thrust engine for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This initiative seeks to strengthen domestic defense production while reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that the project will include full technology transfer, enabling India to manufacture the engines domestically. The collaboration is expected to span a decade, with the first engines anticipated to be operational by the early 2030s.

This partnership aligns with India’s "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) initiative, which aims to boost local defense manufacturing. The AMCA program is set to become a cornerstone of India’s future air combat strategy, offering advanced stealth capabilities and superior performance. Successfully developing its engine is critical for the aircraft’s operational effectiveness and strategic deterrence.

The collaboration with Safran also reflects the deepening defense ties between India and France. Both countries have a history of successful defense projects, including the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets and the construction of Scorpene-class submarines. This new initiative further strengthens their strategic alliance and paves the way for future joint defense projects.

India’s move to co-develop fighter jet engines with France is expected to impact global defense dynamics. The successful realization of the AMCA program will position India as a significant player in the global aerospace sector, capable of producing cutting-edge military technology. This development also demonstrates a global trend where nations increasingly focus on enhancing indigenous capabilities through international partnerships, emphasizing technology transfer and joint development to achieve defense self-sufficiency.

In conclusion, India’s partnership with France to develop advanced fighter jet engines marks a transformative step in the nation’s defense modernization efforts. By leveraging international expertise and fostering domestic innovation, India is set to enhance its strategic capabilities and establish itself as a leader in the global defense industry. This collaboration strengthens bilateral ties with France and contributes to India’s overarching goal of achieving self-reliance in defense technology.