Decision on making powerful engines in India soon: Rajnath

In the post Operation Sindoor scenario, the Ministry of Defence is going full-steam ahead to have indigenous capabilities to make larger engines needed for transport planes, fighter jets and Naval warships

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh speaking at a Defence Accounts Department event today said, “Our effort is to ensure that decisions are taken swiftly so that we can begin manufacturing larger engines right here in India.”

Though Singh did not clarify which engines was he talking about, but sources said these are the engines for fighter jets and Naval warships.

At present, India imports both.

The Naval warships are powered by General Electric combined diesel and gas engines. The indigenous Tejas Mark-1A fighter jet relies on GE F404 engine, supplies of which have been delayed. It has led to further delay of delivery of the jets from its manufacturer Public Sector Undertaking Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to the Indian Air Force.

Also, the GE and HAL announced a joint venture to make the F414 engine in India and have transfer of technology. This would power the Tejas Mark 2.

Rajnath had spoken to his US counterpart Pete Hegseth last week and specially mentioned the need to start production of the F414 in India.

India makes engines for the advanced light helicopters in collaboration with Safran of France. It is now looking to have a bigger engine in a joint venture with Safran to power the 13- tonne Indian Multi Role Helicopter.

The minister said that the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) has a critical role in strengthening the operational readiness and financial agility of the Armed Forces.

Referring to the success of Operation Sindoor, he said that the valour displayed and demonstration of the capability of domestic equipment has further increased the global demand for the indigenous products. “The world is looking at our defence sector with new respect. A single delay or error in financial processes can directly affect operational preparedness,” he said.

He also called on the DAD to evolve from a ‘controller’ to a ‘facilitator’ in sync with increasing participation of the private sector in defence.

The Minister credited the ongoing transformation in the defence sector to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, under whose guidance the country has moved towards Aatmanirbharta.

“Most of the equipment we once imported is now being made in India. Our reforms are succeeding because of the clarity of vision and commitment at the highest level,” he added.

Top News