New Delhi. India has taken a decisive initiative towards becoming self-reliant in the defense and aerospace sector. DRDO’s Bengaluru-based GTRE has invited Indian industries to participate in the development and production of indigenous Aero Gas Turbine Engines. This is not just a technical project, but part of India’s long-term strategic preparation for future fighter aircraft.
Development and production together: new methodology
In the traditional model, a prototype is first prepared and then the production process begins. But this time GTRE has decided to integrate development and manufacturing. This means that the selected industries will be involved in the manufacturing of various engine components and sub-systems from the initial stage itself.
DCPP Model: Active Participation of Industry
“Development-cum-Production Partner (DCPP)” model has been adopted in this project. Under this, an Indian company, whether public sector or private, in partnership with GTRE will be given the responsibility of taking the engine from design to actual hardware and then to serial production.
High Capacity Engine for AMCA Mk-2
This engine project is part of the Advanced High Thrust Class Engine (AHTCE) programme, which is being developed specifically for fifth generation stealth fighters such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) Mk-2.
long term production outline
According to the plan, 18 developmental engines will be prepared and extensively tested in the next 10 years. After the successful testing phase, preparations will be made for serial production of at least 200 engines. This will help India in future to reduce its dependence on foreign engine imports and increase its strategic autonomy.
Technical capability and performance
The thrust capacity of the proposed engine will be between 110 to 130 kilo Newtons, which is in line with the requirements of modern fighter aircraft. This initiative is not just a defense project, but an effort to develop “design-to-production” capability within the country.
If this program is successful, India can join the ranks of the select few countries that indigenously develop and produce advanced combat aircraft engines. With this step, India has given a clear indication that it wants to become not only self-reliant in aerospace technology but also globally competitive.
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