India’s Kaveri engine program, aiming to create a homegrown fighter jet engine over four decades, has been critically hampered by a mere $239 million in funding, compared to billions allocated for similar international projects. This financial disparity has led to significant technical challenges and delays, forcing reliance on foreign engines like the General Electric F404 for the LCA Tejas. Despite setbacks, a promising derivative of the Kaveri engine is in development for the Ghatak UCAV, highlighting the potential of Indian innovation. The Kaveri experience underscores the necessity of substantial investment in defense technology to achieve self-reliance and compete globally, aligning with India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.