India is poised to achieve a landmark milestone in its quest for self-reliance in military technology with the full domestic production of the Shakti turboshaft engine. This development, a cornerstone of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative, will see the engine’s indigenous content rise from over 70% to 100% within the next few years. The engine, a collaboration between French manufacturer Safran Helicopter Engines and India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), powers a significant portion of the Indian military’s helicopter fleet.
The Shakti engine, originally based on Safran’s Ardiden 1H1, has been co-developed to meet the unique operational demands of the Indian Armed Forces, particularly in extreme “hot and high” environments like the Himalayas. With over 500 units produced and more than 350 in service, the engine is the heart of several key military helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, its armed variant Rudra, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH). Its advanced design, featuring a two-stage centrifugal compressor and sophisticated turbine modules, enables helicopters like the LCH Prachand to operate effectively at altitudes exceeding 20,000 feet—critical for missions along India’s northern borders.
The decision by Safran to provide a full technology transfer was influenced by HAL’s progress in developing its own engine, the High Temperature Shaft Engine (HTSE-1200). Faced with potential competition, Safran’s agreement ensures its continued presence in the Indian market. The new Transfer of Technology (ToT) deal, confirmed in 2024, includes proprietary technology for critical components such as the 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.
By 2027-2028, a complete domestic ecosystem is expected to be established, involving private sector firms like Godrej Aerospace and Tata Advanced Systems to build a robust local supply chain for specialised parts. This transition will have far-reaching strategic and economic benefits. For the Indian Army and Air Force, which operate over 300 helicopters powered by the Shakti engine, it guarantees faster maintenance, quicker turnaround times for repairs, and sustained operational readiness. Additionally, 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.
This development underscores India’s growing capability in advanced manufacturing and its commitment to reducing dependency on foreign supply chains for critical defence components. As the Shakti engine becomes fully indigenous, it will not only bolster India’s military readiness but also position the country as a more formidable player in the global defence technology landscape.