New Delhi is set to become a key hub for Rolls-Royce as the luxury automaker turns its focus to defense and aviation. On Thursday, the British giant announced ambitious plans to double its workforce in India to around 10,000 employees through new programs in defense, civil aviation, and energy sectors.
At the heart of this strategy is the co-development of next-generation fighter jet engines. Rolls-Royce is exploring partnerships for 120 kN engines tailored for India’s indigenous military aircraft. This move aligns perfectly with India’s push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The company proposes full technology transfer and intellectual property rights to India, including dedicated design and production facilities. Such steps could generate thousands of jobs and boost local supply chains, with Rolls-Royce aiming to multiply its procurement from India by tenfold, benefiting MSMEs.
Rolls-Royce CEO Tufan Erginbilgic emphasized the company’s commitment to India’s Atmanirbhar journey. ‘We want to partner in developing engine technology, powering critical infrastructure, and scaling local manufacturing,’ he stated.
Currently, over 1,400 Rolls-Royce engines power Indian defense assets, from Jaguar and Hawk aircraft to Arjun tanks and naval vessels. Recent discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi have further solidified this path, with the PM welcoming deeper collaborations.
As India modernizes its armed forces, Rolls-Royce’s expansion signals a new era of UK-India defense ties, promising technological sovereignty and economic growth.