CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
India’s defence aviation sector stands at a defining moment, with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project representing a potential breakthrough in indigenous fighter jet technology. Yet, a long-standing issue continues to cast a shadow India’s dependence on foreign-made engines, which has repeatedly slowed its efforts in achieving complete self-reliance in military aviation.
India’s Fighter Jet Development: A Historical Look
India’s venture into homegrown fighter aircraft began with the HF-24 Marut during the 1950s. It was a bold effort to establish an independent aerospace capability. However, despite its aerodynamic strengths, the aircraft was significantly underpowered due to inadequate engines. Only 147 units were manufactured before it was decommissioned in 1990, underscoring the critical role that engine performance plays in modern air combat.
The Kaveri Engine Setback
To overcome reliance on imported propulsion systems, the DRDO launched the Kaveri engine programme in 1989, aiming to develop an indigenous jet engine for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). However, the project struggled to achieve the necessary thrust-to-weight ratio, and issues with reliability and efficiency led to its eventual discontinuation. Despite years of research and significant investment, India remained without a viable indigenous fighter jet engine.
The Cost Of Foreign Dependence
India’s ongoing reliance on foreign engine suppliers continues to hinder defence production timelines. The LCA Mk1A has seen delays in deployment due to engine availability issues. This has raised alarms within defence circles, particularly as the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces a shrinking number of operational squadrons, affecting its ability to respond to emerging threats.
Recent Developments And Obstacles
Talks with General Electric (GE) for local production of the advanced F414 engine have encountered roadblocks, primarily over cost-sharing and technology transfer demands. Despite efforts to explore partnerships with other international manufacturers, India has yet to secure a breakthrough. The lack of an indigenous engine solution continues to place India's future air combat programmes, including the AMCA, in a precarious position.
Indigenous Engine Capacity
Mastering engine technology is a cornerstone of strategic autonomy in aerospace. Nations like the United States and China have significantly advanced their defence capabilities by developing and controlling their own propulsion systems. For India, creating a homegrown jet engine is not just a technical achievement it is a strategic imperative that will safeguard against foreign supply disruptions and enhance operational flexibility.
Call For Reforms In Defence R&D
Experts believe that India’s setbacks in jet engine development stem from more than just technical challenges. Policy inconsistency, inadequate long-term planning, and fragmented R&D efforts have stalled progress. To close the capability gap, India must initiate structural reforms including better integration of the private sector into defence innovation, and prioritizing long-term investment in core technologies like aerospace propulsion.
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