GTRE Seeks $4.5 Billion to Develop Next-Gen Engine for AMCA Fighter Jet

India’s ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is set to receive a major boost as the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has proposed a budget of at least $4.5 billion (approximately ₹37,500 crore) to develop a next-generation jet engine. The new engine, capable of generating 110-120 kilonewtons (kN) of thrust, is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the country’s indigenous fighter jet capabilities.

The proposed engine aims to match the performance of powerplants used in leading fighter jets such as the Eurofighter Typhoon’s EJ200 engine and the Dassault Rafale’s Snecma M88. Its advanced design will focus on improving the thrust-to-weight ratio, increasing fuel efficiency for extended flight durations, and ensuring greater durability. Additionally, features to lower the aircraft’s radar signature may be incorporated, making the AMCA a formidable stealth fighter.

Developing such a high-performance engine is an enormous challenge, requiring extensive research, testing, and validation. A significant portion of the proposed funding will be allocated to R&D, which includes designing, prototyping, and evaluating engine performance under diverse flight conditions. The manufacturing process will involve cutting-edge techniques to produce highly complex components, while specialized test facilities will be established to conduct full-scale trials.

Beyond development, the budget also covers the crucial integration of the engine into the AMCA aircraft, followed by comprehensive flight tests and the certification process. These steps are essential to ensure the engine meets safety and performance standards before it can be used in combat-ready jets.

Successfully developing this engine will mark a major milestone for India’s defence sector, reducing dependence on foreign technology and strengthening the country’s position in advanced military aviation. If funded and executed as planned, this project will not only power future Indian fighter jets but also open doors for indigenous engine technology in upcoming defence projects.