SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant boost to India’s Indigenous defence capabilities, French aerospace giant Safran has proposed to partner with India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) for the development of a new 110kN engine to power India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. As part of this collaboration, Safran has committed to leveraging Chennai’s growing pool of engineering talent, ensuring that most of the research and development (R&D) for the engine will now take place on Indian soil.
This proposal marks a key milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative, particularly in critical areas like jet engine technology, which has long been a strategic focus for the country.
Safran, known for its expertise in aviation propulsion, is setting up a new facility in Chennai, expanding its footprint in India. This facility will serve as a key hub for research and development, not just for the AMCA engine but also to support India’s growing space sector. With Chennai’s growing reputation as a technology and engineering hub, Safran’s decision is strategic, allowing the company to tap into local talent to accelerate the engine development process.
One of the standout aspects of Safran’s offer is its willingness to provide 100% Transfer of Technology (ToT) for the new 110kN engine. This unprecedented level of cooperation gives India complete control over not only the production of the engine but also its entire supply chain. Additionally, the agreement stipulates that India will have full export control rights over the engine, allowing the country to export the technology without restrictions imposed by Safran.
Instead of a typical revenue-sharing model, Safran has proposed a structure where it will receive royalties from the engine program, rather than sharing profits. This unique arrangement provides India with the autonomy it has long sought in terms of critical defence technologies while safeguarding Safran’s intellectual property through royalties.
Safran’s latest move to expand its presence in India by establishing the Chennai facility follows a series of collaborations between the French company and Indian defence and space sectors. The new centre will not only support the AMCA program but also contribute to the growth of the country’s burgeoning space sector, in which Safran has been actively involved through its subsidiary Safran Data Systems.
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