In ongoing discussions between India and Safran concerning the Shakti jet engine deal, the primary focus is on achieving advanced technology transfer that aligns with India’s future fighter jet requirements, according to Ambassador of India to France, Jawed Ashraf.
Ambassador Ashraf highlighted the intricate nature of the negotiations, stating, “Now, the issue is really about arriving at a set of specifications that comply with our future fighter jet requirements.” He emphasized that the discussions go beyond the mere transfer of manufacturing technology and delve into the actual design phase, metallurgical aspects, and other critical elements contributing to the development of advanced jet engines.
Addressing a special briefing on the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India, Ambassador Ashraf stressed the need for a comprehensive approach. He stated, “What we are looking for is not just a manufacturing transfer of technology but to work in the actual design phase, metallurgical aspects, etc.”
Safran, a key player in the aerospace industry, has expressed its willingness to engage in a 100% transfer of technology across various phases of the project, including design development, certification, and production. However, Ambassador Ashraf acknowledged the complexity of navigating such discussions and emphasized the importance of aligning them with India’s overall future defense requirements.
“So Safran is fully willing to do it with 100% transfer of technology, 100% transfer of technology in design development, certification, production, and so on and so forth,” said Ambassador Ashraf.
The discussions between India and France on advanced aeronautical technologies gained momentum in July 2023 when the two countries decided to extend their defense cooperation by supporting the joint development of a combat aircraft engine. This decision also included support for the motorization of heavy-lift helicopters under the Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH) program in collaboration with Safran Helicopter Engine.
In a significant meeting in April 2023, Safran’s Group Chairman, Ross McInnes, discussed a technological partnership with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in defense and space. The French firm, known for manufacturing aircraft and rocket engines, has been actively involved in joint development projects with India, such as the future 13-tonne Indian MultiRole Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval version Deck-Based MultiRole Helicopter (DBMRH).
Safran’s commitment to technology transfer aligns with India’s strategic vision for bolstering its indigenous capabilities in defense and aerospace. As discussions continue, the defense industry roadmap is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring the alignment of these advancements with India’s evolving defense requirements.
(inputs from ANI)