India’s 5th-Gen Fighter Jet Breakthrough: Bold Move to Cut Foreign Dependence [2025 Update]

India is making rapid progress in developing its own fifth-generation fighter jet to enhance national defense. Facing security threats from China and Pakistan—both of which already have advanced jets—India aims to reduce reliance on foreign aircraft by building an indigenous combat fleet. Currently, the Indian Air Force operates with only 31 squadrons, far below the required 42, and had to procure 36 Rafale jets from France to strengthen its defenses. However, the long-term strategy is to boost domestic fighter jet production.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has already delivered the Tejas fighter jet, with an upgraded Tejas-MK1A now in production. The Indian Air Force has ordered 83 of these aircraft, powered by engines from U.S.-based General Electric, with deliveries set to begin soon. In parallel, India is developing its next-generation stealth fighter under the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, which is expected to be operational by 2030. To accelerate progress, the government is involving private-sector companies.

A key part of this initiative is the development of an indigenous fighter jet engine, led by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) with support from Godrej Aerospace. With prior experience in military projects, including the Kaveri engine, Godrej Aerospace is expected to play a significant role. The company is part of the Godrej Group, one of India’s most respected business families, operating in diverse industries like real estate, engineering, and security.

This collaboration between government agencies and private firms is a major step toward self-reliance in defense technology. If successful, it will significantly enhance India’s air power and reduce dependence on foreign military imports, reinforcing national security in the face of regional challenges.

India’s 5th-Gen Fighter Jet Breakthrough: Bold Move to Cut Foreign Dependence [2025 Update]

Facing growing security threats from neighbors like China and Pakistan, India is racing to develop its own advanced fighter jets. Both China and Pakistan already operate modern combat aircraft, pushing India to accelerate its efforts to build indigenous alternatives and reduce reliance on foreign military imports. The goal is to establish a strong, self-reliant defense system.

Current Challenges and Immediate Fixes

The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates with only 31 fighter squadrons, far below the required 42 needed to safeguard India’s vast borders. To address this shortfall, India purchased 36 Rafale jets from France in 2016. These high-tech aircraft, stationed along the China and Pakistan borders, have strengthened India’s air defense. However, relying on foreign jets is costly and does not solve the long-term issue of dependence on other nations.

The Tejas Program: A Step Toward Self-Reliance

India’s state-run aerospace company, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has made significant progress with its Tejas fighter jet—the country’s first homegrown lightweight combat aircraft, designed to replace aging Soviet-era planes. An upgraded version, the Tejas-MK1A, is now in production, featuring improved radar, weapons systems, and easier maintenance. The IAF has placed an order for 83 of these jets.

A crucial component of the Tejas-MK1A is its engine. While India is developing its own engine technology, the current Tejas models are powered by engines from the U.S. company General Electric (GE). The first batch of GE engines recently arrived, marking a significant milestone as the delivery of new Tejas jets is set to begin. While this is a step forward, true self-reliance will only be achieved once India produces its own engines.

Next-Gen Stealth Fighters: The AMCA Project

Looking ahead, India is working on a fifth-generation stealth fighter under the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. These jets will feature cutting-edge technology, including radar-evading capabilities, advanced sensors, and the ability to carry heavy weaponry. The goal is to have the AMCA operational by 2030.

To fast-track development, India is engaging private companies alongside government agencies. This shift is critical, as past projects faced delays due to an over-reliance on state-run firms. By involving private-sector players, India aims to introduce innovation, efficiency, and faster execution into its defense manufacturing.

The Engine Challenge: Building a Homegrown Powerhouse

One of the biggest challenges in fighter jet development is creating a reliable, high-performance engine. India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) has been working on this for decades, particularly through the Kaveri engine project. While the Kaveri faced technical setbacks, the lessons learned are now guiding new engine designs.

Godrej Aerospace, a division of the Godrej Group, is playing a key role in this effort. With extensive experience in aerospace engineering, Godrej was involved in the Kaveri project and is now contributing expertise to newer engine developments. Successfully creating a homegrown engine would be a game-changer, making India truly independent in fighter jet production.

The Godrej Group: A Legacy of Innovation

Godrej Aerospace is part of the Godrej Group, a 127-year-old Indian conglomerate founded by Ardeshir Godrej. Initially known for manufacturing locks and safes, the company has since expanded into consumer goods, real estate, and engineering. Led by Adi and Nadir Godrej, the family-owned business has an estimated net worth of around $20 billion. Their growing role in defense manufacturing highlights the increasing involvement of private industry in India’s military modernization.

Why This Matters

India’s push for homegrown defense technology is not just about keeping up with rivals—it’s about strategic autonomy. Reducing dependence on imports safeguards against supply chain disruptions during conflicts and prevents sensitive technology from falling into the hands of adversaries. Additionally, investing in domestic defense production creates jobs and strengthens India’s technological expertise.

Collaboration between government agencies like HAL and GTRE and private firms like Godrej Aerospace signals a shift toward a more efficient defense manufacturing ecosystem. By pooling resources and expertise, India aims to overcome past setbacks and achieve faster results.

Looking Ahead

If India successfully delivers both the Tejas-MK1A and AMCA programs, it could transform its air force into one of the most advanced in the world. While the Tejas-MK1A will meet immediate needs, the AMCA could rival top fifth-generation jets like the U.S. F-35 or China’s J-20. Combining these aircraft with indigenous engines would solidify India’s position as a leader in defense technology.

However, challenges remain. Developing stealth aircraft and next-generation engines requires massive investment, skilled engineers, and rigorous testing. Delays are common in such complex projects, but India’s recent progress—such as the arrival of GE engines for the Tejas—shows strong momentum.

In a region where military tensions are rising, India’s drive for self-reliance is both a necessity and a statement of intent. By embracing innovation and strategic partnerships, the country is working to secure its skies and strengthen its position as a global defense power.