India has demonstrated increasing self-reliance in the defense sector

Defense Minister Raj Nath Singh visited the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru today and reviewed the status of ongoing projects related to the development of indigenous military gas turbines. He was briefed about the establishment's projects, interactions with the Indian industry, academic institutions, and R&D organizations, and the support provided to the defense forces.

He also visited an exhibition showcasing various indigenous engines and their components and witnessed the full afterburner engine test of the Kaveri engine. Interacting with scientists and officials, the Defense Minister lauded GTRE's efforts towards strengthening national security through self-reliance, terming DRDO as the foundation of India's strategic capability.

He emphasized the importance of achieving self-sufficiency in aero engine technology in the current changing geopolitical landscape and stated that every possible effort is being made to prioritize the development of aero engines in India. He reiterated the government's commitment to achieving self-reliance in every sector, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and added that countries possessing key technologies will remain secure, stable, and self-sustaining.

Recognizing GTRE's efforts in this critical technology area, Raj Nath Singh emphasized the need to focus on building a strong ecosystem at the national level while achieving self-sufficiency in aero engines and to work on next-generation engines. He said, "We are rapidly moving towards the design and development of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). We have made numerous attempts to acquire expertise in the aero engine sector in the past. Now, it's time to complete these efforts. We cannot limit ourselves to just fifth-generation engines. We should start developing sixth-generation technology as soon as possible. It's time to work on them. The use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and new materials is increasing. We should stay ahead of the curve."

The Defense Minister termed the development of aero engines as a highly complex effort, integrating thermodynamics, material science, fluid mechanics, and advanced mechanical engineering. Noting that even developed countries take 25-30 years to develop next-generation engines, he urged Indian scientists to reduce timelines in view of the country's strategic requirements. He said, "We should fulfill our responsibility as if we have already spent 20 years and now have only 5-7 years left. This is a call to action in line with national aspirations."

Referring to Operation Sandur, Raj Nath Singh highlighted that the defense forces demonstrated India's growing self-reliance in the defense sector during the operation. "Whether it was communication systems, surveillance equipment, or attacking weapons, everything was made in the country. This boosted the morale of our soldiers and instilled pride among citizens. In the face of emerging challenges, it's essential to focus more on indigenous solutions and provide our forces with world-class systems and equipment."

The Defense Minister appreciated GTRE's collaboration with the UK for a joint study on aero engine development and noted that a similar process has been initiated with France under the National Aero Engine Mission. Both France and the UK are highly developed in aero engine technology. This cooperation will not only provide us with an opportunity to learn new technologies but also help us understand the challenges they faced over the past decades.

Mr. Raj Nath Singh also highlighted the potential for dual-use of such complex technologies and said that GTRE is developing high-temperature composites that could significantly benefit future civil aviation, power generation, and space sectors. He noted that India is one of the fastest-growing civil aviation markets in the world and the technological advancements achieved in defense aero engines today could play a transformative role in overall civil aviation and economic growth.

The Defense Minister emphasized the need to capitalize on the numerous opportunities provided to India, making a special mention of the free trade agreement between India and the European Union, which has been pending for 18 years and is now complete. He said, "This trade agreement is a recognition of India's growing economic and political power." He also referred to his recent meeting with the Greek Defense Minister, who, he said, views India not as an emerging power but as a superpower.

On this occasion, Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defense R&D and Chairman of DRDO, and senior scientists and officials of GTRE were present.