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Kaveri Dry Engine Achieves 48.5 kN Thrust in Russian Trials

September 27, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Kaveri dry engine achieves 48.5 kN thrust in Russian trials.
Exceeds baseline performance expectations of 46 kN.
To power India's Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV).
Successful high-altitude performance clears technical hurdle.

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Strategic Implications

The Kaveri dry engine's success may indicate a significant milestone in India's pursuit of self-reliance in military aviation, suggesting a potential reduction in dependence on foreign engine manufacturers. This development could also pave the way for the integration of indigenous engines into future Indian defense projects, which may have implications for the global defense industry.

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What Happened

India's Indigenous Jet Engine Powers Ahead for Ghatak UCAV

The Kaveri dry engine, designed by India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), has reportedly achieved a thrust of 48.5 kN in Russian trials, exceeding its baseline performance expectations. This non-afterburning variant of the jet engine is specifically tailored to power India’s upcoming stealth drone, the Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV). The successful high-altitude performance of the engine clears a major technical hurdle for the DRDO Ghatak project, ensuring that the autonomous stealth drone will possess a reliable, domestically developed powerplant. This development was first reported by Defence News India.

Source | Originally Published: September 26, 2026

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