New Delhi, July 7, 2025 — In a significant move toward bolstering India’s defence self-reliance post-Operation Sindoor, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said the government is expediting decisions to begin manufacturing large engines for military platforms within the country.
“Our effort is to ensure that decisions are taken swiftly so that we can begin manufacturing larger engines right here in India,” Singh said while addressing an event organized by the Defence Accounts Department (DAD).
Though Singh did not name specific engine platforms, official sources confirmed that the government is focusing on powerplants for fighter jets and naval warships — both of which are currently imported.
Naval warships of the Indian Navy rely on General Electric’s Combined Diesel and Gas (CODAG) propulsion systems, while the Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets are powered by the GE F404 engines. Delays in the supply of the F404 have pushed back the delivery timelines of the jets from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to the Indian Air Force.
In response, a joint venture between GE and HAL was recently announced to manufacture the more advanced F414 engine in India, along with full transfer of technology. The F414 is slated to power the upcoming Tejas Mark 2 fighter aircraft.
Singh, who spoke to his U.S. counterpart Pete Hegseth last week, flagged the urgency of initiating domestic production of the F414 engine during their conversation.
India already manufactures engines for its Advanced Light Helicopters in collaboration with France’s Safran. Now, New Delhi is aiming to co-develop a more powerful engine for its future 13-tonne Indian Multi Role Helicopter through a fresh joint venture with Safran.
Citing the operational success of Operation Sindoor, Singh said the global demand for Indian defence equipment has risen, showcasing the growing credibility of the indigenous defence ecosystem. “The world is looking at our defence sector with new respect,” he noted, adding, “A single delay or error in financial processes can directly affect operational preparedness.”
He also urged the DAD to evolve from being a controller of expenditures to becoming a facilitator of India’s defence modernization. “As private sector participation increases in defence, financial systems must become more responsive and agile,” he said.
The Defence Minister credited the momentum in India’s defence transformation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “Most of the equipment we once imported is now being made in India. Our reforms are succeeding because of the clarity of vision and commitment at the highest level,” he said.
Singh reiterated that the pursuit of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) is no longer aspirational but a necessary foundation for India’s strategic autonomy.
