India Looks Beyond US for Fighter Jet Engine Collaboration

India is in discussions with defence manufacturers from the UK, France, and Japan to co-develop fighter jet engines. This comes as part of an effort to broaden its defence partnerships and address capacity gaps. According to news reports, the proposals will be reviewed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The plan is to begin work on the project soon.

India In Talks with UK, France, and Japan 

Rolls-Royce has offered to jointly produce engines and transfer related technology. This offer was made during a visit by Indian defence officials to the UK in April. In parallel, France’s Safran has expressed interest and is open to technology transfer and co-ownership of intellectual property. Japan also made a similar proposal in May, although no specific partner was mentioned. Earlier this month, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with his Japanese counterpart in Delhi to discuss possible collaborations, including tank and engine development.

Status of US Collaboration

India has been in talks with US-based General Electric since 2023 for the joint production of GE F414 engines, meant for India’s Tejas and AMCA fighter aircraft. However, these talks have been delayed. Last year, penalties were imposed on GE due to delays in delivering engines. The partnership with GE remains active, but the slow pace has led India to consider other options.

Air Force Concerns

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, speaking at an industry event, said delays in acquiring key weapons systems are affecting defence preparedness. He noted that most major defence projects have not met their deadlines. This has added urgency to India’s plans to increase domestic defence manufacturing.

Read more: Made in India 5th-Generation Fighter Jet Project Cleared Amid Rising China-Pakistan Military Ties

AMCA Project and Plans

India’s AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) program is progressing. Reports suggest the first two squadrons will likely use GE F414 engines. For the remaining five squadrons, over 100 aircraft, India is looking to use more powerful engines developed with partners outside the US. The Ministry of Defence is expected to seek formal approval for the next phase soon.

Conclusion

India is evaluating proposals from the UK, France, and Japan for co-developing fighter jet engines, amid delays in its ongoing collaboration with General Electric. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India is the world's largest importer of arms, with a growing trend towards procuring weapons from the United States and France.

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