Defence Ministry and French Firm Safran Partner on Fifth-Gen Fighter Jet Engines

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India will manufacture 5th-generation jet engines domestically in partnership with French aerospace company Safran, at the World Leaders Forum, as per news reports. 

Safran already works with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) on engines for advanced light helicopters and autopilot systems. A joint venture, SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt., is also creating a high-powered engine for the 13-tonne Multi-Role Helicopter, set to replace the Indian Air Force’s Russian Mi-17s. Additionally, development is underway for an engine to power the naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter, designed for anti-submarine warfare.

Expanding Indigenous Defence Capabilities

Singh highlighted other initiatives, such as Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. receiving fresh orders worth ₹66,000 crore for 97 Tejas fighter aircraft, in addition to an earlier order of 83 aircraft valued at ₹48,000 crore. 

As per news reports, he emphasised: “Our Tejas aircraft is going to be a great example of India's indigenous defence capabilities. We have also taken steps towards making fifth-generation fighter aircraft and aircraft engines in India.” 

To strengthen self-reliance, the government has rolled out 5 positive indigenisation lists covering 509 platforms, systems and weapons that must now be produced locally. Defence PSUs have also published their own indigenisation lists with more than 5,000 sub-systems, spares and components.

Boosting Defence Exports and Procurement

The Defence Minister stressed that 75% of the defence capital procurement budget is now reserved for Indian companies. He noted the strong export growth, stating: “The government has set a target of achieving ₹30,000 crore in defence exports in 2025 and ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029.” 

He further pointed out that exports have increased nearly 35-fold over the last decade, rising from just ₹686 crore in 2013-14 to ₹23,622 crore in 2024-25, with Indian defence products now reaching close to 100 countries.

Read More: India Seeks New Partners for Fighter Jet Engine Development Beyond the US!

Conclusion 

India’s collaboration with Safran on advanced jet engines, major orders for Tejas, and ambitious export goals reflect its growing self-reliance in defence. With rising exports and a focus on indigenous production, India is positioning itself as a key global defence player.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.