India Nearing Landmark Deal for 6th-Generation Fighter Jet Engine for AMCA Mk2: DRDO Chief Confirms

India is on the verge of a major breakthrough in its journey toward developing a next-generation fighter aircraft. According to the Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Dr. Samir V. Kamat, the country is expected to finalize a high-profile international partnership within the next two to three months to jointly develop a powerful sixth-generation jet engine. This engine will power future variants of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), particularly the Mk2 version, which is currently in the planning stage.

Dr. Kamat made this announcement during a defence event in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, on April 13, 2025. He stated that discussions with four leading international aerospace companies are in the final stages. These companies are believed to include Safran from France, General Electric (GE) from the United States, Rolls-Royce from the United Kingdom, and possibly NPO Saturn from Russia—all global giants in advanced engine development.

The engine being developed through this collaboration is expected to deliver between 110 to 130 kilonewtons (kN) of thrust. One of its standout features will be Variable Cycle Engine (VCE) technology. Unlike conventional engines, VCEs can adapt their airflow depending on the flight condition, allowing for better fuel efficiency during cruising and more thrust during combat situations. This innovation can lead to up to 30% improvement in range and 20% better acceleration, giving India’s future jets a distinct edge.

Such high-end features are crucial for staying competitive against the likes of the United States’ Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program and China’s J-XX series. With global air combat capabilities rapidly evolving, India is aiming to ensure that its future aircraft can not only keep pace but also stand out in terms of speed, stealth, and advanced warfare technologies.

The indigenous AMCA program, approved by the Indian government in 2024 with an initial funding of ₹15,000 crore, is a two-phase project. The AMCA Mk1 variant will use the already selected GE F414 engines (98 kN thrust), with its first flight expected around 2030 and squadron-level service likely by 2035. The more advanced AMCA Mk2, anticipated to debut around 2040, will require this new, more powerful engine to meet its high-performance goals—such as supercruise capability (flying at supersonic speeds without afterburners) and integration of futuristic systems like AI-guided drone swarms and laser-based weapons.

India's Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), located in Bengaluru, will lead the Indian side of the engine project. GTRE brings valuable experience from the earlier Kaveri engine program, which achieved thrust levels of up to 81 kN. However, a sixth-generation engine is an entirely different challenge—one that will demand an estimated investment of $4–5 billion and extensive technical expertise.

This is why, as Dr. Kamat emphasized, international collaboration is not just preferable but essential. A joint venture will help India overcome the complex challenges of designing such an engine while cutting down on development time and minimizing technical risks.

While Safran has long been seen as a front-runner—especially following high-level diplomatic talks during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2023 visit to Paris—the field remains open. General Electric already has a strong relationship with India through the F414 deal, and Rolls-Royce has shown clear interest in co-developing a 110 kN engine. NPO Saturn, with its history of working on advanced propulsion for Russian fighter jets, is also considered a formidable contender.

The decision expected in the coming months will mark a defining moment for India's aerospace ambitions. A successful partnership will not only power the next generation of Indian fighter aircraft but also strengthen India's position as a leader in cutting-edge aviation technology on the global stage.