Rolls-Royce has announced plans to significantly scale up its operations in India, signalling deeper collaboration across defence, civil aviation and energy sectors. The company is exploring opportunities to co-develop a next-generation combat jet engine, marking a potential milestone in India’s pursuit of indigenous military capabilities.
The proposed collaboration includes the development of a 120 kN class combat jet engine core, positioned as a fast-track pathway for India to achieve an indigenous next-generation propulsion system. The offer includes full technology transfer and intellectual property ownership for India, supported by dedicated design and manufacturing infrastructure.
The British engineering major indicated that these initiatives could more than double the workforce supporting Rolls-Royce and its partners in India, potentially expanding the ecosystem to around 10,000 people. The move is also expected to generate substantial employment and strengthen India’s high-technology manufacturing base.
In addition to combat aircraft engines, the company is assessing localisation of engine manufacturing for the Indian Army, Navy and Coast Guard. It is also exploring power solutions for critical infrastructure and industrial applications, aligning with India’s broader energy and industrial growth plans.
Rolls-Royce estimates that supply-chain sourcing from India could increase ten-fold, benefiting small and medium enterprises and reinforcing India’s position in global manufacturing networks.
The company emphasised its commitment to supporting India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by developing indigenous propulsion capabilities and expanding local production for both domestic and global supply chains.
Currently, more than 1,400 Rolls-Royce engines power various Indian defence platforms, including combat aircraft, trainer jets, main battle tanks, naval vessels and submarines. The expanded partnership aims to deepen long-term strategic and industrial cooperation between India and the United Kingdom.
The development reflects India’s growing focus on defence self-reliance and high-end technology co-development, positioning the country as an increasingly important hub for advanced aerospace and defence manufacturing.
