India eyes collaboration with France as US delays hit Tejas Mk-2, AMCA timelines

Officials aware of the discussions said Safran has formally submitted proposals to India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to jointly build advanced jet engines tailored for both platforms, according to an India Today report.

The Tejas Mk-2 is currently based on the American GE F414 engine, which delivers 98 kN of thrust.

Although GE and HAL have a technology transfer agreement in place—under which 80% of the engine is to be produced in India—delays in supplies and escalating costs have hindered progress, prompting a renewed search for alternatives.

Safran has offered a 110 kN thrust engine for the Tejas Mk-2, which promises improvements in speed, payload capacity and endurance.

The aircraft, being developed by HAL and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), is intended to replace the IAF’s ageing fleet of Jaguars, Mirage-2000s, and MiG-29s.

It will feature a modern radar system, infrared search and track (IRST), and indigenous weaponry including the Astra air-to-air missile and BrahMos-NG.

The French firm has also pitched a 120 kN engine for the AMCA, which will have a twin-engine layout.

This engine is expected to be vital to the stealth fighter’s high-end capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking on Thursday, said India aims to build five AMCA prototypes by 2029.

Safran already partners with HAL in helicopter engine programmes. If the proposed jet engine collaboration is finalised, it could significantly boost India’s push for defence self-reliance, with potential technology transfer provisions bolstering the domestic military industrial base.