India and France could conclude a joint fighter engine development deal in a couple of months, The Hindu revealed, citing sources.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke to French Defense Minister Florence Parly about the deal in a visit to Paris last week, according to an unnamed defense official cited by the outlet.
The deal will see India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation and French engine maker Safran collaborate to develop a 125KN (Kilonewton) engine for India’s first indigenous fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is under development.
To Power Second Version of AMCA
The engine will power the Mk2 — the AMCA’s second version — with the first version powered by a GE414 engine.
The Safran-Hindustan Aeronautics Limited-developed Kaveri engine already powers the country’s indigenous Advanced Light Helicopter.
First Flight in 2025
India’s state-run Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has been working on the design of the twin-engine AMCA since 2009. The plane features an “internal weapons bay and Diverterless Supersonic Intake.”
According to the outlet, the 25-ton aircraft will carry 1,500 kg (3,307 pounds) of internal payload and 5,500 kilograms (12,125 pounds) externally, along with 6,500 kg (14,330 pounds) of internal fuel.
The ADA has completed its preliminary design review for the aircraft with its critical design review expected later this year. The plane is scheduled to be rolled out in 2024, with its maiden flight occurring in 2025, the outlet wrote, citing agency director-general Girish S. Deodhare.
