India is preparing to take a transformative step in its defense sector by developing 5th-generation fighter jets in collaboration with French aerospace giant Safran. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made the announcement while addressing the Economic Times World Leaders’ Forum 2025, underlining the government’s commitment to strengthening national security and advancing the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Singh revealed that India will not only design and manufacture these advanced jets but will also produce their engines within the country. “We are about to start engine manufacturing in India with Safran,” the minister said, highlighting the importance of indigenous capacity-building in defense technology.
As part of ongoing efforts to modernize the Indian Air Force, the government recently placed a significant order with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture 97 Tejas fighter aircraft at a cost of about $7.9 billion. This follows a previous contract for 83 aircraft worth $5.8 billion. Singh emphasized that the Tejas has become a symbol of India’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. “It’s not that challenges don’t exist, but we are determined to overcome them and establish the complete capability to build fighter jets in India,” he said.
The Defence Minister also responded to a recent comment by Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, who compared India’s economy to a “shining Mercedes” while calling Pakistan a “dumper truck.” Singh described the remark as an admission of Pakistan’s economic struggles but warned against dismissing it as mere rhetoric. “If we take these historical indications seriously and prepare, India is capable of giving a strong response to any warning,” he asserted.
The twin announcements — India’s leap toward next-generation aircraft and the expansion of Tejas production — mark a major milestone in the nation’s defense journey. By partnering with global leaders like Safran while strengthening indigenous industries, India is positioning itself as a formidable player in advanced military aviation and ensuring long-term security through self-reliance.
