Safran’s Strategic Collaboration for India’s Indigenous Fighter Jet Engine Development

Safran, a prominent French aerospace firm, has proposed a comprehensive partnership with India to co-develop advanced jet engines for its indigenous fighter jet programs, namely the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF). This collaboration aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative, aiming to enhance self-reliance in defense technology.

Engine Development for the AMCA

Safran is positioned to collaborate with India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to develop a high-thrust engine (110-125 kN) for the AMCA Mk-2, a fifth-generation stealth fighter. The engine will incorporate advanced technologies, including a larger core than the M88 engine used in the Rafale and materials designed for elevated turbine inlet temperatures.

Safran has committed to full technology transfer, encompassing design, development, certification, and production, with intellectual property rights jointly held. This engine is anticipated to enable supercruise and stealth capabilities, with a prototype scheduled for trials by 2029, utilizing a Rafale jet as a flying testbed.

Application to the TEDBF

The proposed 110 kN engine is also under consideration for the Indian Navy’s TEDBF, a twin-engine, carrier-based multirole fighter. This initiative seeks to enhance the TEDBF’s operational capabilities, with production expected to commence around 2032-33. The collaboration supports India’s strategic autonomy by facilitating domestic production and potential export opportunities.

Additional Collaborative Efforts

Beyond fighter jets, Safran is exploring engine development for the Tejas Mk-2 to mitigate delays in engine supplies from GE Aerospace. Additionally, through a joint venture with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt Ltd, Safran is developing engines for the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH). Safran is also fulfilling offset obligations from the Rafale agreement by establishing a maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility in Hyderabad by 2025 and an electronics research and development center in Bengaluru.

Strategic and Industrial Implications

This partnership represents a critical step toward reducing India’s dependence on foreign engine suppliers, particularly following the challenges faced by the Kaveri engine program. Safran’s offer of complete technology transfer and shared intellectual property rights supports India’s objective of establishing a robust domestic aerospace industry. Integrated within the India-France Horizon 2047 strategic framework, the collaboration is expected to finalize its roadmap by late 2023, with a formal agreement anticipated in 2024.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the promising outlook, the development of advanced engines involves complex technical challenges, such as the integration of ceramic matrix composites and adherence to stringent cost and timeline constraints. The AMCA program, allocated ₹15,000 crore, targets a prototype by 2025-26 and serial production by 2035. Addressing technical and bureaucratic obstacles will be essential to achieving these milestones.

Conclusion

Safran’s proposed collaboration with India for the development of advanced jet engines for the AMCA, TEDBF, and related programs offers a significant opportunity to advance India’s defense capabilities. By leveraging Safran’s technological expertise and India’s manufacturing potential, this partnership has the potential to foster self-reliance and elevate India’s position in the global aerospace sector.