Officials from the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) have raised concerns about India’s outdated aero-engine test facilities, urging the government for urgent upgrades and sustained funding to support the Kaveri engine revival and AMCA program. The existing infrastructure, largely from the 1970s-80s, is inadequate for modern testing demands, risking significant delays and increasing dependency on foreign technology. GTRE has proposed a comprehensive Rs 1,600 crore plan for a High-Altitude Test Facility to enhance capabilities, including advanced simulation chambers, digital integration, and ongoing maintenance funding. This appeal underscores the critical need for self-reliance in India’s defense sector amid rising regional threats, emphasizing that upgrading testing facilities is vital for reducing reliance on imported engines and ensuring national security.