French Engine For Tejas Mk 2? New Delhi Examines Safran's Engine Bid For Tejas And AMCA Projects

India is closely examining a proposal from French aerospace giant Safran to develop and manufacture engines for the Tejas Mk-2 fighter jet, media reports say.

This comes amid strained ties with the United States, particularly over delays in the supply of GE F414 engines for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme.

The proposal, submitted by Safran, includes establishing a complete engine manufacturing ecosystem in India for the Tejas Mk-2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). It emphasises 100% technology transfer, a key demand from New Delhi to bolster self-reliance in defence production.

Media reports also said that this does not signal the abandonment of the existing MoU signed in 2023 for co-production of GE F414 engines with 80% technology transfer, though commercial negotiations are ongoing as of September 2025, with no final signed deal for 99 engines or specified value yet confirmed.

However, ongoing delays in GE deliveries— with only three engines received by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) as of last week—have prompted India to explore alternatives.

Defence officials stated that the Safran offer is being reviewed in the context of broader India-US trade talks. Tensions have arisen from US export controls and certification issues, impacting the timely induction of Tejas Mk-1A jets into the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The IAF, facing a shortfall of fighter squadrons, aims to induct 83 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft under a Rs 48,000 crore contract with HAL. The first two improved Mk-1A jets are expected next month, contingent on successful weapon trials.

Meanwhile, Safran's initiative builds on its existing presence in India, including plans to set up an MRO facility for Rafale engines in Hyderabad by 2026, creating 150 jobs. This aligns with India's push for co-development, as seen in previous collaborations like the Shakti helicopter engines.

It is worth noting that Safran's proposal extends to the fifth-generation AMCA, potentially reshaping India's defence partnerships.

The government has also approved acquiring another 97 Tejas Mk-1A jets for Rs 85,500 crore in August 2025, underscoring the urgency.

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