In a significant move towards self-reliance in military technology, India is set to achieve complete domestic production of the Shakti turboshaft engine, which powers a large portion of its military helicopter fleet.
French engine manufacturer Safran has agreed to a complete 100% Transfer of Technology (ToT) for its Ardiden 1H1 engine, known in India as Shakti.
This development will elevate the engine's current indigenous content of over 70% to full local manufacturing within the next few years, reinforcing the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
The Shakti engine is the result of a long-standing collaboration between Safran Helicopter Engines and India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
Co-developed to meet the specific operational needs of the Indian Armed Forces, the engine is engineered to perform reliably in extreme "hot and high" environments, such as the Himalayan mountain ranges.
With more than 500 units already produced and over 350 currently in service, the transition to full domestic production marks a pivotal step in reducing India's dependency on foreign supply chains for critical defence components.
This powerful engine is the heart of several key Indian military helicopters. It provides the necessary thrust for the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, its armed variant Rudra, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH).
The Shakti engine's design, featuring a two-stage centrifugal compressor and advanced turbine modules, allows helicopters like the LCH Prachand to operate effectively at altitudes exceeding 20,000 feet—a capability crucial for surveillance and combat missions along India's northern borders.
The decision by Safran to provide a full technology transfer was strategically influenced by HAL's progress in developing its own engine, the High Temperature Shaft Engine (HTSE-1200).
Faced with potential competition from this new indigenous engine, Safran's agreement ensures its continued presence in the Indian market.
The new ToT deal, confirmed in 2024, includes proprietary technology for critical components previously manufactured under license, such as the advanced Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system and core turbine modules.
HAL's facility in Bengaluru has been the primary manufacturing hub, already producing a significant portion of the engine's components, including casings, oil cooling systems, and electrical harnesses.
With the new agreement, a complete domestic ecosystem is expected to be established by 2027-2028. This will involve roping in private sector firms like Godrej Aerospace and Tata Advanced Systems to build a robust local supply chain for specialised parts, further strengthening India's industrial defence base.
Achieving 100% indigenous production of the Shakti engine will have far-reaching strategic and economic benefits.
For the Indian Army and Air Force, which operate over 300 helicopters powered by this engine, it guarantees faster maintenance, quicker turnaround times for repairs, and sustained operational readiness.
Furthermore, it is projected to reduce production and maintenance costs by up to 30%, insulate the supply chain from global disruptions, and enhance the export potential of Indian-made helicopters like the LCH Prachand.
