India is expanding its defense collaboration to develop indigenous fighter jet engines by engaging manufacturers from the UK, France, and Japan, moving beyond its traditional reliance on the US. The Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is currently evaluating proposals from Rolls-Royce, Safran, and a Japanese firm IHI after offers were made during visits and talks between 2025 April and May. Safran has emerged as the preferred partner, with a Ministry of Defence recommendation to jointly develop a 120 kN thrust engine for future combat platforms like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), including full technology transfer. Rolls-Royce and Japan have also proposed joint production and technology sharing. These efforts address supply chain security and aim to modernize India’s air force with domestically manufactured engines amid regional security challenges. The project aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat push to boost local defense production, reduce import dependence, and enhance critical manufacturing capabilities. Delays in US-based General Electric’s engine deliveries have further motivated India to diversify its partnerships. The combined approach reflects a strategic shift to shore up India’s aerospace capabilities swiftly while ensuring self-reliance and resilience in critical military technology supply chains. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has actively supported this initiative, valuing the collaboration as vital for India’s next-generation fighter development program. The overall defense budget and indigenous production have grown substantially, underlining the government’s commitment to domestic manufacturing and security preparedness in 2025.