Breathtaking display of ignorance, of the funding and functionings of his own ministry by a former Defence secretary and borderline lobbying for dismantling a national effort that’s at last gonna see serious money and intent from the political leadership. Where do I start?
On India's aspiration for indigenous jet engine.
Decades of effort, billions spent, and the Kaveri engine still can’t deliver the thrust needed.
🔻 DRDO’s monopoly model
🔻 Failure to develop high-performance alloys & hot-section tech
🔻 Dependence on foreign kits for even basic components
🔻 Slow, risk-averse R&D culture
🔻 Minimal role for private sector innovators
Jet engines are the world’s most protected, complex technologies No nation will “transfer” them.
If India wants true defence self-reliance, it needs reform, competition, and bold private-sector partnerships.
Until then, the aero-engine dream stays stuck on the runway.*