GTRE Confirms Core Upgradability in 110kN AMCA Engine, Enabling Future Evolution to 125-145 kN Thrust for 6th-Gen Fighter

India's Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has announced significant plans for the jet engine intended for the nation's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

The establishment confirmed that the 110kN (kilonewton) thrust engine will feature a core design allowing for future enhancements.

This design approach means the engine can be developed into more powerful versions, potentially reaching thrust levels between 125kN and 145kN. Officials suggest these upgraded engines could power a future heavy fighter aircraft, possibly a sixth-generation platform. Such an aircraft is anticipated to eventually replace the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Sukhoi Su-30MKI jets, likely starting around 2045 to 2050.

The 110kN engine, which is currently being planned, is specifically designed for the demanding needs of the AMCA. These requirements include the ability to fly faster than sound for sustained periods without using afterburners (supercruise) and performance characteristics compatible with stealth technology.

The AMCA is India's first domestically developed fifth-generation stealth fighter, a joint effort by DRDO and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). While initial prototypes of the AMCA will use the American General Electric F414 engine (producing 98kN thrust), the shift to the indigenous 110kN engine is a vital step for the programme. GTRE aims to have this engine ready for use by the early 2030s.

A key aspect of the new engine is its modular construction, which permits these core upgrades. A GTRE official confirmed this, stating, "The 110kN power plant will have core upgradeability so that engines in the range of 120kN to 145kN thrust can be developed."

This built-in scalability aims to ensure the engine technology remains relevant for many years, serving not only the AMCA but also potentially powering a more advanced, heavier class of fighter jet in the future.

The IAF currently operates a large fleet of over 260 Su-30MKI aircraft, which are central to its air combat strength. However, these aircraft are projected to retire between 2045 and 2050. An ongoing upgrade programme, known as "Super Sukhoi," which includes improvements like the advanced Virupaksha AESA radar and the Astra MkIII missile, will keep the jets effective into the 2030s.

Nevertheless, a replacement will be necessary in the long term. GTRE's strategy involves using the core technology from the AMCA's engine to create the more powerful 120kN-145kN thrust engines needed for a potential sixth-generation fighter.

 

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[sanket]

Yes, I think they will do as you say. The air force was clueless about it, but right now you have made a clear path for them to follow. They will for sure be taking this into account.

Yeah, 110 kN power plant can be integrated with Tejas MK2, TEDBF and AMCA, while scalable variant/core-upgraded variant 145 kN can be integrated with Super Sukhoi as well in future 6th gen fighter. A couple of days ago there was an article on commonality, engine and core commonality with economics of scale can also drop engine prices plus ecosystem to manufacture 70 to 80% common components too.

 

[RG]

Work with private Industry in a consorsium approach to achieve this goal. GTRE can get royalty from this product by guiding and providing technical expertise.

 

[Leo red]

Don't waste more for power useless with more power. We should not target to fly tank. Instead tactical and flexible fighter with no signature. Higher KN will expose fighter in radar easily. Just need kn for flying n radar and firing weapons in different direction.

 

[Hari Sud]

AMCA prototypes will fly with GE414 engine that has 98kN thrust.The production will have to follow with 110kN engine jointly developed with GE Safran or RR.
With experience gained Indian companies can join together for a higher version 120 or 140kN engine.
GTRE should complete flight test of 50kN dry version of Kaveri and 80to 90kN afterburner version at the earliest to go to next project.

Do not believe that DRDO can do anything right including engine for AMCA even if RR or SAFRAN or GE is hired to collaborate. The real problematic element is government Babu type approach to any project. There is no accountability, no responsibility and no,discipline.