GE’s Soaring Engine Costs Threaten India’s AMCA Fighter Jet Timeline And Budget Plans

India's ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is facing fresh challenges as negotiations for the GE F414 engine reportedly encounter major cost-related hurdles. According to sources, the engine price quoted by GE has risen sharply from an estimated ₹70-80 crore to nearly ₹200 crore per engine, raising concerns over project timelines and budgets. The AMCA, India's indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet program, requires multiple prototypes to be developed in the coming years. With costs escalating, DRDO is reportedly exploring alternative engine partners and collaboration options, a move that could impact the program's development schedule and strategic roadmap.