India's Homegrown Engine Takes A Major Step Towards Ghatak

USE Plac for Thumb India has achieved a significant milestone in its quest for an indigenous jet engine. The Kaveri dry engine, being developed for the Ghatak stealth combat drone, has reportedly completed crucial high-altitude tests at two Russian facilities, with the engine exceeding its expected thrust. The development could mark an important step towards powering India's homegrown unmanned combat aircraft. The achievement is significant because India's frontline combat aircraft still rely on foreign-origin engines. However, the journey from successful ground testing to an operational engine remains long, with certification, integration and flight trials still ahead.