SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s ambitious 5th generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is nearing a critical milestone. With Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approval secured and over $2 billion allocated, the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) is set to make a crucial call – choosing a co-development partner for the AMCA’s engine.
According to reliable sources to idrw.org, DRDO has concluded most discussions with potential partners – French Safran, American GE Aviation, and British Rolls-Royce. Negotiations focused on intellectual property rights (IPR) and investment terms. DRDO will submit its recommendation to the Ministry of Defence (MoD) based on these evaluations.
The MoD’s final decision will likely involve a careful balancing act. GTRE’s technical evaluation will be weighed against geopolitical considerations. The ideal partner will offer a clean-sheet design, free from the limitations of older-generation technology, which is paramount. Both Safran and Rolls-Royce have reportedly offered such designs.
Both Safran and Rolls-Royce have reportedly offered clean sheet designs for a 6th generation engine, ensuring India retains ownership of the IPR. Additionally, they have guaranteed export-restriction-free engine technology, allowing India greater flexibility in future sales.
Each company has proposed that investments required in the program by India will be to the tune of around $5-6 billion Since the need for “clean sheet” designs requires additional investments in the technology and around 4 years to develop a prototype and around 3 years for near production ready engine to be tested from AMCA prototype.
With negotiations complete, the ball is now in DRDO’s court. Their recommendation, coupled with the MoD’s strategic assessment, will determine which company will collaborate with India on this critical project. The chosen partner will play a vital role in developing a next-generation engine that propels the AMCA to air superiority.
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