India is stepping up its game to build powerful fighter jets with the Tejas LCA Mk2.
After Operation Sindoor, the need for more fighter jets and faster production is urgent. India is now eyeing a partnership with France’s Safran to develop engines for these jets.
This move comes as delays from US-based GE Aerospace, currently supplying engines for the Tejas Mk-1, have slowed down the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) upgrade plans.
The Tejas LCA Mk2 is a new 4.5 generation fighter aircraft designed to replace older jets like the Mirage-2000, Jaguar, and MiG-29.
With a weight of about 17.5 tonnes, it will be stronger, faster, and have a longer range than its predecessor. But powerful engines are key, and that is where Safran comes in.
Why the shift to Safran? The answer lies in recent security tensions and the need for faster, reliable supply chains. After Operation Sindoor, India made it clear that any attack on its soil would be met with a tough response.
The IAF wants to boost its squadron strength from the current 31 to 42 fighter squadrons. However, delays in engine deliveries from GE Aerospace have slowed down this goal.
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This new partnership with Safran is part of India’s broader push to be self-reliant in defense technology.
India has tried developing its own jet engines before with the Kaveri engine project, but that didn’t meet the required power for fighter jets. So, partnering with global leaders like Safran is a smart move to strengthen indigenous capabilities and reduce dependency on one supplier.
Safran already has a foothold in India through a joint venture with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) called HAL-SAFHAL, focusing on helicopter engines. Now, the goal is to expand this to fighter jet engines, helping India speed up production and improve technology transfer.
This move also fits into India’s bigger plan for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet.
The Defence Ministry recently approved a new execution model for AMCA, encouraging industry partnerships and promoting domestic companies to compete.
India is serious about its aerospace ambitions. While China is rapidly deploying fifth-generation fighters like the J20 and J35 along the border, India is ensuring it’s not left behind. The Tejas LCA Mk2, powered by engines from Safran, could be the game-changer India needs.
For the average Indian, this means stronger air defense, faster upgrades, and a step closer to true self-reliance. It’s like upgrading from a basic smartphone to the latest flagship—only this time, the stakes are national security.
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