India’s GTRE is moving ahead with the Kaveri 2.0 fighter engine, envisioned as a future indigenous replacement for the GE F404 powering Tejas Mk1A aircraft. The upgraded design aims for 55–59 kN dry thrust and 90–100 kN with afterburner, potentially surpassing current F404 performance. Improvements are expected through better materials, redesigned core architecture, and possible international support in hot-section technologies. The program is strategically important as India seeks reduced dependence on imported engines amid supply delays. Kaveri 2.0 could become a candidate for Tejas upgrades in the 2030s and may support future combat aircraft programs.
