Major boost for defence — India to manufacture fighter jet engines locally, says Rajnath Singh

National News: Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has said that India will soon start producing engines for fifth-generation fighter aircraft in partnership with French aerospace company Safran. He called it a big step towards making India stronger in defense and aerospace technology.

A Major Step Forward

Speaking at a program of a leading English daily, Singh explained that this move brings India closer to building its own advanced fighter jets. “Today, we have moved one step ahead in the direction of manufacturing fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Together with Safran, we will begin making these engines in India itself,” he said.

Global Investors Invited

Rajnath Singh also invited international companies to take part in India’s growing defense manufacturing sector. He promised full government support, faster approvals, and cooperation for those who invest in India’s defense ecosystem. Referring to the larger vision of the Make in India initiative, Singh added, “Our Make in India program is not limited to India alone. When you manufacture in India, you are manufacturing for the world.”

Linked to AMCA Program

The announcement came shortly after the Defence Ministry approved the model for implementing the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project. This collaboration with Safran is expected to strengthen India’s ability to design and produce modern fighter aircraft indigenously.

Defence Exports See Big Growth

The Defence Minister highlighted how India’s defense exports have grown rapidly over the last decade. In 2013-14, exports were only ₹686 crore, but in 2024-25, they reached ₹23,622 crore. Today, India exports defense products to nearly 100 countries. Singh also set new goals, saying exports should touch ₹30,000 crore this year and ₹50,000 crore by 2029.

Domestic Production on the Rise

Along with exports, domestic defense production has also increased more than three times. In 2014, it was about ₹40,000 crore, but by 2024-25, it has crossed ₹1.5 lakh crore. Singh said production is expected to reach almost ₹2 lakh crore in the current financial year, showing India’s fast progress in defense manufacturing.

Towards Self-Reliance in Defence

This partnership with Safran is seen as a major milestone. Producing fighter jet engines in India will reduce dependence on imports and boost the country’s goal of self-reliance in defense. Experts believe that this move will not only help India’s future fighter jet programs but also make India a stronger player in the global defense industry.