SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In an exclusive update to idrw.org, an official from the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) has confirmed that discussions are ongoing for the co-development of a new 110kN engine for the 5.5 generation fighter jet, specifically for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The talks are progressing with major aerospace companies, and a decision on selecting a vendor is expected soon.
According to the GTRE official, negotiations with global aerospace giants Rolls-Royce and Safran are in the advanced stages. GTRE is set to send its recommendations to the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) shortly, which will determine the future direction of the engine program.
One of the key highlights of these discussions is the different Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) offers from the two contenders. Rolls-Royce has proposed to transfer the complete IPR of the engine to GTRE, giving India full control over the design and technology. In contrast, Safran has offered only partial IPR transfer, which could limit the level of technological control available to India. This difference in IPR offerings is a critical factor in the ongoing talks.
Both Rolls-Royce and Safran have agreed to establish production facilities for the new engine in India. Additionally, both companies have committed to assisting with engine testing, a key phase in the development process.
While both options have their merits, the GTRE official hinted that Rolls-Royce is currently the preferred partner due to the more robust engine roadmap they have presented. The company’s offer of complete IPR transfer is seen as a significant advantage, offering greater autonomy for India in the long term. However, the official emphasized that decisions of this magnitude often carry geopolitical implications, and the final decision will ultimately be made by the MoD, considering both strategic and technological factors.
The new 110kN engine, designed for the AMCA program, is a critical component in the development of India’s next-generation fighter jet. It is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring the AMCA’s superior performance and operational capabilities, particularly in the areas of speed, maneuverability, and endurance.
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