Why India Should Address Its Propulsion Gap
India’s military and space ambitions are rising fast—but its propulsion technology remains a glaring weak spot. Whether it's advanced fighter jet engines, next-gen missiles, or long-range submarines, propulsion is the heart of any combat system. And right now, India imports much of it.
Here’s why that’s a problem—and what India must do to fix it.
1. Propulsion: The Engine of Strategic Power
Propulsion technology—be it gas turbines, rocket engines, or marine propulsion systems—directly defines a nation's combat readiness, range capabilities, and indigenous defense manufacturing capacity. Without it, systems like fighter jets or submarines remain incomplete or dependent on foreign suppliers.
2. India’s Current Dependence on Foreign Systems
Jet Engines: India’s Tejas fighters rely on GE F404/F414 engines from the U.S.
Submarines: Kilo-class and Scorpène-class subs use foreign propulsion systems.
Missile Programs: While DRDO has developed solid fuel and some liquid propulsion capabilities, scramjets, hypersonic tech, and nuclear propulsion remain underdeveloped.
This dependence limits strategic autonomy, especially during geopolitical crises where foreign suppliers may halt technology transfers or spares.
3. China and the U.S.: A Contrast in Capabilities
China has invested heavily in its indigenous WS-series jet engines, nuclear-powered submarines, and hypersonic glide vehicles.
The U.S. and Russia possess generations of proven propulsion systems, from stealth UAV engines to nuclear-capable missile tech.
India’s relative lag not only affects its deterrence, but also undermines export competitiveness and long-term strategic credibility.
4. Impact on Programs Like AMCA and Hypersonics
India’s planned 5th-generation fighter (AMCA) and its hypersonic missile programs (like HSTDV) are promising—but propulsion remains their Achilles' heel. Without indigenous engines, India will continue to face delays, cost overruns, and possible technology denials.
5. Indigenous Efforts and Their Bottlenecks
India has tried to bridge this gap:
Kaveri Engine Project: DRDO’s long-standing fighter engine project has made progress but is not yet combat-ready.
Partnerships with Safran & Rolls-Royce: Talks exist but haven’t matured into full tech transfers.
Scramjet and Hypersonics: Still in nascent R&D stages; no operational system yet.
These initiatives need sustained funding, foreign collaboration (with tech transfer), and stronger DRDO-private sector synergy.
6. Why Fixing the Propulsion Gap Matters Now
National Security: Future conflicts will demand rapid, long-range precision—something only good propulsion can guarantee.
Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India): Real self-reliance includes propulsion independence.
Export Capability: No country will buy Indian defense hardware powered by imported engines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the propulsion gap in India?
A1: It refers to India's limited domestic capability to design and produce advanced propulsion systems for aircraft, missiles, and naval platforms.
Q2: Why is propulsion technology so important?
A2: Propulsion determines speed, range, stealth, and overall performance of defense platforms. Without it, combat systems are incomplete or dependent on imports.
Q3: What is the status of the Kaveri engine project?
A3: Kaveri has made progress but remains non-operational for fighter aircraft. It may be used in drones or trainers if upgraded.
Q4: Can India catch up with China or the U.S. in propulsion?
A4: With sustained R&D investment, public-private collaboration, and targeted foreign partnerships, India can bridge much of the gap over the next decade.
Q5: What should the government do to address this gap?
A5: Invest in a national propulsion mission, incentivize private R&D, fast-track international tech collaborations, and provide operational feedback loops via the armed forces.
Published on: June 24, 2025
Uploaded by: PAVAN
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