SOURCE: AFI
French aerospace engine manufacturer Safran has offered to collaborate with India in the development of a new engine for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s fifth-generation fighter program. As part of its roadmap, Safran has proposed using the Dassault Rafale fighter jet as a flying testbed for the new engine.
The plan involves equipping a Rafale with two engines: one of its standard M-88 engines and the other a high-thrust engine designed for the AMCA. By testing the AMCA engine on the Rafale airframe, Safran aims to validate its performance and capabilities in a real-world environment.
If the new engine proves successful in the Rafale, India would have the option to upgrade its existing fleet of Rafale fighters with the more powerful engine in the future. This would significantly enhance the capabilities of the Rafale, making it a more formidable asset to India’s air force.
The collaboration between Safran and India on the AMCA engine development offers several potential benefits for both countries. For India, it would provide access to advanced engine technology and expertise, while for Safran, it would secure a significant market for its products.
While the final decision on whether to accept Safran’s proposal is yet to be made, the offer represents a promising opportunity for India to accelerate the development of its indigenous fighter aircraft program.