GTRE Seeks IAF Support for Flight Testing of Engines Critical to AMCA and UCAV
India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is making strides in indigenous engine development.
The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) is leading two crucial programs: the Dry Kaveri engine for Unmanned Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft and a new 110kN engine for the ambitious 5th generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project.
The Challenge of Flight Testing
While engine development progresses, GTRE faces a major obstacle: the lack of a dedicated flying testbed for critical in-flight trials. Initially, GTRE proposed purchasing a Russian IL-76 Transporter for this purpose, but the plan failed to materialize.
An Innovative Solution
Demonstrating resourcefulness, GTRE has turned to the Indian Air Force (IAF) for support. They seek to use in-service IL-76 aircraft as flying testbeds for both engine programs.
This would encompass testing the Dry Kaveri, the proposed afterburning Kaveri engine for the LCA-Tejas Mk1A, and the engine designed for the AMCA. Utilizing existing IL-76s offers a practical and cost-effective solution.
Precedent and Strategic Importance
Discussions between the DRDO and IAF are ongoing, but GTRE's past experience collaborating with Russia's Gromov Flight Research Institute (which modifies Il-76s for engine testing) supports the proposal's feasibility.
This cooperation has strategic significance. India's self-reliance in defence technology relies heavily on successful engine development. Using in-service IL-76s would accelerate GTRE's testing and development timelines.
Optimism and Collaboration
As GTRE and the IAF discuss the proposal, optimism prevails.
This collaboration showcases India's commitment to self-sufficiency in defence technology, highlighting the nation's ambition to become a leading player in the aerospace industry.