AMCA project overview
India France Jet Engine Partnership for AMCA: The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is India’s most ambitious defence aviation program. It is a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet designed to enhance the Indian Air Force’s future capabilities. The project was cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in 2024, with an estimated cost of ₹15,000 crore for the prototype phase.
Two versions are planned: Mark 1, which will rely on existing engines, and Mark 2, which will feature the new co-developed high-thrust engine.
Static GK fact: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) is chaired by the Prime Minister of India.
India France collaboration details
The partnership brings together Safran, a French aerospace leader, with DRDO and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The focus is to jointly design and manufacture a 110 kiloNewton (kN) thrust class jet engine.
The plan includes full technology transfer, local production facilities, and long-term cooperation. Development of the advanced engine is expected to take about a decade, with both India and France committing to a roadmap.
Static GK fact: Safran is also the manufacturer of the M88 engine that powers France’s Rafale fighter jets.
Strategic importance
The deal holds deep strategic value for India. It addresses a long-standing gap in jet engine technology, one of the most difficult areas of defence manufacturing. India will gain critical know-how, reducing dependence on foreign imports.
The initiative is also aligned with the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat campaigns, boosting indigenous production and defence exports.
Static GK Tip: India’s defence exports crossed $2.6 billion in 2023–24, the highest ever recorded.
Strengthening India France ties
India and France already share close defence ties, from the Rafale aircraft deal to cooperation in space and nuclear energy. This engine project adds a new dimension, signaling long-term trust and shared innovation goals.
The partnership enhances India’s credibility as an emerging aerospace power while reinforcing France’s role as a reliable strategic partner.
Why jet engines matter
Jet engines are among the most complex engineering systems in the world, requiring advanced metallurgy, thermodynamics, and precision manufacturing. Past Indian attempts like the Kaveri engine project faced setbacks due to funding and technological gaps.
With Safran’s expertise and structured collaboration, India now has a renewed chance to establish sovereign engine-making capability.
Static GK fact: The Kaveri engine was initially planned for the Tejas fighter jet but was eventually replaced by the GE-404 engine.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India France Jet Engine Partnership for AMCA:
| Topic | Detail |
| Project name | Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) |
| Approval year | 2024 by Cabinet Committee on Security |
| Estimated cost | ₹15,000 crore for design and prototype |
| Collaborating countries | India and France |
| French partner | Safran |
| Indian partners | DRDO and HAL |
| Engine thrust capacity | 110 kN |
| AMCA versions | Mark 1 (existing engine), Mark 2 (new engine) |
| Development timeline | Around 10 years |
| Previous Indian attempt | Kaveri engine project |
