In a significant advancement for India’s defense and aerospace sector, French aerospace leader Safran Aircraft Engines has announced plans to establish a dedicated Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Hyderabad. This facility will specifically service the M88 engines that power the Dassault Rafale fighter jets, marking Safran's first M88 engine MRO hub outside of France. This strategic move further solidifies India's position as a growing global aerospace player.
New Facility Details and Impact
The new Hyderabad MRO facility is projected to handle over 600 engine modules annually by 2040. It's expected to create more than 150 skilled jobs initially, with an additional 750 roles anticipated in subsequent phases. By servicing both India's Rafale jets and M88 engines from other nations, this MRO facility will solidify Hyderabad's role as a vital center in the global maintenance network."
Christophe Bruneau, Safran’s Executive VP for Military Engines, emphasized that this facility underscores the company's long-term commitment to India’s strategic autonomy. He stated it aims to enhance operational readiness for all M88 users, calling it "a major step in building aerospace sovereignty in India."
The M88 Engine: Powering the Rafale
The M88 engine, a twin-shaft turbofan, is renowned for its high thrust, modular design, and ease of maintenance. It powers India’s fleet of 36 operational Rafale jets. With potential future acquisitions on the horizon, localized maintenance is crucial to ensuring sustained air readiness for India's frontline defense systems.
Strategic Location and Ecosystem
Hyderabad was a natural choice for this facility due to its flourishing aerospace ecosystem. The city already hosts key players like HAL, DRDO, GMR Aerospace Park, and numerous global OEMs. This new MRO center will complement Safran’s two existing facilities in Hyderabad: Safran Electrical & Power India, which manufactures electrical harnesses for LEAP and Rafale engines, and Safran Aircraft Engines Hyderabad, specializing in producing rotating parts for LEAP’s low-pressure turbines.
Aligning with 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'
This endeavor strongly supports India’s 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) vision."It represents a significant shift from "Make in India" to "Sustain in India," emphasizing long-term technological and industrial capability development within the country.
The announcement was made jointly by Pierre Fernandez, Safran’s General Manager, and Telangana’s Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu, highlighting strong backing from both industry and governmental spheres."