SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is making significant strides in its indigenous jet engine program, with the Kaveri engine currently undergoing critical trials in Russia. The advanced turbofan engine, designed to power future Indian aerial platforms, is being tested for its suitability to drive a Made-in-India long-range Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), marking a pivotal step in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence technology.
According to sources, the Kaveri engine, developed by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), is in the final stages of testing in Russia, with approximately 25 hours of trials remaining. The tests, conducted at specialized facilities in Russia, are subject to scheduling by local authorities, who allocate testing slots. These trials are crucial to validate the engine’s performance, reliability, and compatibility with the stringent requirements of a long-range UCAV, which demands high thrust, fuel efficiency, and operational endurance.
The Kaveri engine has been a cornerstone of India’s efforts to develop indigenous propulsion systems, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. Originally designed for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, the engine faced challenges in meeting the required thrust levels but has since been refined for applications like the UCAV. The successful completion of these trials in Russia could pave the way for the engine’s integration into India’s ambitious unmanned combat platform, enhancing the country’s capabilities in autonomous aerial warfare.
This development aligns with India’s broader defence strategy under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which emphasizes self-reliance in critical defence technologies. The Kaveri-powered UCAV is expected to bolster India’s strategic deterrence, offering long-range strike capabilities and advanced stealth features. As the trials near completion, DRDO’s collaboration with Russian testing facilities underscores the importance of international cooperation in achieving India’s technological goals, while reinforcing its commitment to indigenization.
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