India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) is set to accelerate its Kaveri engine testing program, with endurance trials for the D2 and D3 variants scheduled for 2026. This development follows the recent receipt of the Kaveri D1 prototype and marks a critical phase in validating design improvements aimed at enhancing the engine’s performance under challenging operational conditions. The Kaveri program, currently at 85% indigenization, aims to reach 88% by mid-2026, bolstering supply chains and reducing reliance on foreign technologies. Successful engine trials are crucial, as they align with India’s strategic objectives to enhance its combat aircraft capabilities, including the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and swarm-capable unmanned systems, thereby strengthening national defense amidst regional threats.