The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has unveiled the NJ-100, a 100 kgf thrust gas turbine engine aimed at enhancing India’s self-reliance in aerospace propulsion systems for tactical UAVs and cruise missiles. This development signifies a pivotal advancement in indigenous defense manufacturing, addressing historical reliance on foreign suppliers. The NJ-100 engine’s design focuses on high thrust-to-weight ratio and fuel efficiency, crucial for modern warfare’s emerging demands. Furthermore, it promises to reduce costs and technology transfer risks by providing a Make-in-India alternative to imported systems, thereby strengthening India’s strategic capabilities in unmanned platforms and air-launched weapons.