India Commits ₹654 Billion for Fighter Jet Engine Development, Eyes Self-Reliance Through Global Partnerships

India is preparing to invest approximately ₹654 billion, equivalent to $7.44 billion, in the development and acquisition of engines for fighter aircraft scheduled to be operational by 2035. This long-term effort is focused on supporting a range of defense projects that will require an estimated 1,100 engines, as outlined by S.V. Ramana Murthy, who leads the country's Gas Turbine Research Establishment.

The strategy emphasizes enhancing domestic aerospace capabilities while leveraging international expertise through partnerships with established global players such as Safran, Rolls-Royce, and General Electric. By combining local innovation with advanced technology from global collaborators, the program is set to boost self-reliance in defense manufacturing and contribute to the modernization of India's air combat fleet over the next decade.