Japan Proposes High-Thrust XF9-1 Engine for India’s AMCA, Enabling 6th-Gen Fighter Evolution

Japan has officially stepped into the race to power India’s ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program by offering its advanced IHI XF9-1 engine. This move places Japan alongside leading contenders from the United States, France, and the United Kingdom in one of the most closely watched global aerospace competitions.

At the heart of Japan’s proposal is the IHI XF9-1, a cutting-edge, low-bypass turbofan engine developed by IHI Corporation — Japan’s premier aerospace propulsion company. The XF9-1 was originally developed for Japan’s next-generation stealth fighter program, the F-X (now known as F-3), and it stands out for both its high thrust output and future scalability.

About the XF9-1 Engine

The XF9-1 is designed to deliver a dry thrust of around 11 tons (107kN), and an impressive 15 tons (147kN) with its afterburner. What makes this engine remarkable is its ability to scale up even further, with engineers projecting a future potential of nearly 20 tons (196kN) of maximum thrust. This future growth capability makes the XF9-1 a particularly appealing candidate for India’s AMCA program, which envisions a 5.5-generation stealth fighter and possible sixth-generation upgrades in the coming decades.

A critical requirement for the AMCA is achieving supercruise capability — sustained supersonic flight without afterburners — which demands a dry thrust of around 73-75kN. The XF9-1 already exceeds this figure in its current configuration, offering flexibility for modifications to suit India’s specific needs while retaining room for future enhancements.

About IHI Corporation

IHI Corporation (formerly known as Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries) has a rich and proud history in aerospace propulsion dating back to the early 20th century. The company began its journey in aviation engine production by collaborating with international firms and gradually building indigenous expertise. Over the years, IHI has become the backbone of Japan’s military and civil aerospace engine programs.

Some of IHI’s notable aircraft engine developments include:

• F3 Engine: Powering the Kawasaki T-4 advanced trainer.

• F7-10: Developed for the Kawasaki P-1 maritime patrol aircraft.

• IHI F5: For the Fuji T-1 jet trainer.

• FJR710: A high-bypass turbofan developed for civil aviation applications.

The XF9-1 marks Japan’s most advanced and powerful fighter engine to date, representing decades of incremental technology development, indigenous innovation, and lessons from licensed production of American engines like the General Electric F110.

Why This Matters for India

India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), which leads the country’s fighter engine development efforts, requires an engine delivering 120kN of thrust with the ability to supercruise. While other contenders like GE’s F414, Safran’s M88, and the Eurojet EJ200 are capable, the XF9-1’s scalability and future potential set it apart.

Japan’s proposal is also fully aligned with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, promising significant technology transfer and domestic manufacturing. This would not only strengthen India’s aerospace industry but also deepen defence ties between New Delhi and Tokyo, marking a milestone in their evolving strategic partnership.

Conclusion

As India prepares to finalize its choice for the AMCA engine, the Japanese offer brings a fresh and highly capable option to the table. The XF9-1’s combination of modern design, future-ready performance, and scalability for sixth-generation platforms makes it a serious contender. If selected, it could mark a historic collaboration between India and Japan in advanced aerospace technology, boosting India’s quest for self-reliance in critical defence systems while enhancing regional security cooperation.

The decision, however, will depend on comprehensive technical evaluations, long-term strategic calculations, and the extent of technology access promised by each contender. Regardless of the outcome, Japan’s XF9-1 has already made its mark as one of the finest fighter engines in its class.