Rolls-Royce and Safran are vying for India’s contract to co-develop an engine for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation stealth fighter. Rolls-Royce and Reliance Industries announced a strategic partnership this month to jointly develop and manufacture the engine, including plans for a dedicated aerospace gas turbine complex in India. The proposal aligns with India’s push for indigenous defense production.
Safran has countered with an offer to develop a high-thrust engine with India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment. The French firm’s proposal is under review by India’s Cabinet Committee on Security, the top body for defense approvals. The AMCA program aims to replace aging fighter fleets and bolster India’s self-reliance in aerospace technology.
The competition highlights India’s strategy to balance partnerships with foreign expertise while fostering domestic industry growth.
