- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Mon, 16 Feb 2026 09:28 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday visited the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru and urged scientists to complete the indigenous aero-engine project within five years, significantly accelerating the existing timeline.
Addressing researchers at the DRDO facility, Singh emphasised the need for rapid technological advancement in view of India’s strategic requirements and evolving geopolitical challenges. He said that while developing an aero engine typically takes 20-25 years globally, India must compress that timeframe.
“If it takes 25 years to develop an engine, then given India’s current situation, our strategic needs and national goals, we should assume that 20 of those years have already passed and only five years are left,” he said, describing the task as challenging but achievable.
The Minister stressed that India must not limit itself to fifth-generation engines and should begin preparations for sixth-generation jet engine technologies. He highlighted the growing global integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced materials in defence systems and called for India to remain at the forefront of these developments.
The GTRE functions under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and plays a key role in developing indigenous propulsion systems. Singh described the establishment as a foundation of India’s strategic capability and reiterated that self-reliance in critical defence technologies is essential in the current global scenario.
Referring to the government’s broader push for indigenous defence production, he said sustained efforts have been made over the past several years to prioritise aero-engine development and reduce dependence on foreign technology.
The visit underscores the government’s renewed focus on strengthening domestic defence manufacturing and advancing next-generation military capabilities.