The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a premier DRDO laboratory in Bengaluru, has officially closed the submission window for its Expression of Interest (EOI) to identify a Development-cum-Production Partner (DcPP) for India’s Indigenous Advanced High Thrust Class Aero Engine (AHTCE) programme. The EOI (GTRE/AHTCE/EOI/01/25-26) concluded on March 26, 2026, with bid openings scheduled the following day, reflecting the urgency of this strategic initiative.
This programme represents a major milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in high-performance military aero engines. It focuses on developing a 120 kN class turbofan engine intended to power next-generation platforms such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), as well as future unmanned combat systems. Historically reliant on imported engines like the GE F404 and F414 for the Tejas fleet, and after limited success with the Kaveri programme, India now aims to bridge capability gaps through a clean-sheet or significantly upgraded indigenous engine in the 110–130 kN range. The goal is to enable fifth-generation fighter capabilities, including supercruise, enhanced agility, and advanced sensor integration.
Under the model, GTRE will retain overall design authority, while the selected partner will handle production engineering, manufacturing of nearly 2,500 components, assembly, integration, quality assurance, and certification support. The development plan includes around 18 test engines over a decade, followed by potential production of up to 200 units. The initiative emphasizes deep industry participation, requiring strong financial credentials and aiming to build a comprehensive domestic ecosystem covering advanced materials, superalloys, precision manufacturing, and digital controls.
The framework also allows for international collaboration, with discussions underway with France’s Safran for co-development and technology transfer. With bids now under review, GTRE is expected to shortlist partners soon before moving into detailed negotiations. The programme timeline spans 10–12 years, targeting initial prototype testing around 2030 and eventual flight certification.
