Discussions ongoing in Safran-India Shakti jet engines deal on tech transfer

Safran-India Shakti jet engines deal: In the dynamic landscape of India's defence prowess, ongoing discussions between India and Safran regarding the Shakti jet engine deal are centred on a nuanced exchange of advanced technological capabilities. Ambassador of India to France, Jawed Ashraf, shed light on the intricacies of the negotiations, emphasizing the focus on aligning specifications with India's future fighter jet requirements.

Exploring Specifications for Future Fighters

Ambassador Ashraf clarified that the ongoing discussions delve far beyond mere manufacturing technology transfer. The heart of the matter lies in arriving at a set of specifications that seamlessly integrate with India's envisioned future fighter jet capabilities. The negotiation process involves a comprehensive exploration of the design phase, metallurgical intricacies, and other critical elements crucial for the development of cutting-edge jet engines.

Comprehensive Approach for Technological Leaps

Addressing a special briefing on French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India, Ambassador Ashraf stressed the necessity of a comprehensive approach. He articulated, "What we are looking for is not just a manufacturing transfer of technology but to work in the actual design phase, metallurgical aspects, etc." The objective is to move beyond the traditional transfer of technology, ensuring a leap in India's indigenous capabilities.

Safran's Willingness for Full-Spectrum Technology Transfer

Safran, a prominent player in the aerospace industry, has expressed its readiness for a 100% transfer of technology across various project phases, including design development, certification, and production. Ambassador Ashraf acknowledged the complexity of such an endeavour, highlighting the need for aligning these discussions with India's broader future defence requirements.

Defence Cooperation Milestones

In a pivotal decision in July 2023, India and France extended their collaborative efforts in advanced aeronautical technologies, particularly in the joint development of a combat aircraft engine. The partnership also extends to supporting the motorisation of heavy-lift helicopters under the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) programme in collaboration with Safran Helicopter Engine.

The groundwork for this collaboration was laid during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's discussions with President Macron in Paris. The subsequent meeting in April 2023 between Safran's group chairman, Ross McInnes, and PM Modi further solidified the commitment to a technological partnership in defence and space.

In February 2023, Safran Helicopter Engines and Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) inked a workshare agreement for the joint development of engines intended for the future 13-tonne Indian MultiRole Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval version Deck-Based MultiRole Helicopter (DBMRH).

As the discussions unfold, the Safran-India Shakti jet engines deal signifies a significant stride towards bolstering India's technological prowess in the aerospace and defence domains. The negotiations encapsulate the collaborative spirit between the two nations in pushing the boundaries of innovation and strategic capability.