SOURCE: AFI
In a powerful display of public support for India’s self-reliance in defense technology, the hashtag #FundKaveriEngine has surged to the top of X trends across India, amassing significant traction with thousands of posts. As of May 26, 2025, the campaign, which calls for increased funding and prioritization of the Kaveri engine program, has captured the attention of defense enthusiasts, analysts, and citizens alike, highlighting the strategic importance of developing indigenous aero-engines for India’s fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The Kaveri engine program, led by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has been a critical yet challenging endeavor since its inception in 1989. Initially intended to power the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, the program faced setbacks due to thrust deficiencies and weight issues, leading to its delinking from the Tejas in 2008. Despite these challenges, recent progress, including the Kaveri Derivative Engine (KDE) achieving 46-49kN of thrust and clearance for inflight testing in 2024, has reignited hope in the program’s potential.
The #FundKaveriEngine movement gained momentum following Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s announcement on April 30, 2025, of increased funding to accelerate the Kaveri program, including the KDE for the Ghatak stealth UAV and the proposed Kaveri 2.0 engine targeting 90kN of thrust. Posts on X, including one by
@IndiaWarMonitor, noted that the hashtag has been trending for hours, reaching the number-one spot in India with under 40,000 posts, with potential to hit a million if amplified by larger accounts. Users like @Warlock_Shubh and @irrationalkidd emphasized that widespread support could ensure the campaign catches the attention of policymakers, urging bigger X accounts to join the cause.
The campaign reflects growing public frustration over India’s reliance on foreign engines, such as the GE F404 and F414 for the Tejas, which leaves the nation vulnerable to geopolitical constraints like U.S. export controls. X users, including @FinestYew, have criticized past decisions to defund the Kaveri program, arguing that it has hindered India’s aerospace ambitions and increased dependence on foreign powers. The sentiment is echoed by @alpha_defense, which highlighted the Kaveri’s achievement of 73kN of afterburner thrust despite limited facilities, underscoring the need for sustained investment.
The timing of the #FundKaveriEngine trend is particularly significant, as it coincides with heightened regional tensions and India’s successful neutralization of Pakistani drones and rockets using systems like Akash and MR-SAM. The DRDO’s recent efforts to enhance the Akash missile system with advanced propulsion fuels further demonstrate India’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities. The Kaveri engine, if fully realized, could power future Tejas variants and the Ghatak UAV, reducing reliance on imports and bolstering national security.
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