The Kaveri engine, developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under India’s DRDO, is a bold leap toward self-reliance in military aviation. In the 1980s, GTRE launched the Kaveri Engine project. The engine aims to power the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. It seeks to reduce India’s dependence on foreign technology. Recently, authorities cleared the Kaveri engine for inflight testing.
The Kaveri Engine: A Symbol of India’s Pride
However, the project faced hurdles, including thrust shortfalls and delays caused by global sanctions following India’s 1998 nuclear tests, which restricted access to critical tech. Despite these challenges, recent breakthroughs have reignited hope. Additinally it is being adapted for unmanned drones like the Ghatak UCAV, delivering 49-51 kN of thrust. The Indian Navy is exploring a marine variant, the Kaveri Marine Gas Turbine (KMGT), for smaller warships. Private companies like Larsen & Toubro are proposing a 110 kN engine based on the Kaveri framework, while increased funding, announced by the Defence Minister, signals strong government backing. With plans for limited production by 2025-26, the homegrown engine is a shining example of India’s growing aerospace prowess and determination to innovate.
Why Gen Z Loves #FundKaveriEngine
Gen Z has turned the Kaveri engine into a social media phenomenon, with #FundKaveriEngine trending across platforms like X, especially after Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025. For young Indians, this engine symbolizes national pride and technological independence, reducing reliance on foreign engines from the US or France. On X, users share posts about the engine’s journey since 1986, its potential to power fifth-generation fighters, and recent successful tests in Russia. Gen Z’s digital activism, urging PM Modi to boost funding, reflects their passion for a self-reliant India.
Using TikTok, Instagram, and X, they’ve made the homegrown engine a rallying cry for innovation, with thousands of posts highlighting its strategic importance. Additionally, this generation’s knack for blending patriotism with social media savvy has turned the Kaveri engine into a cultural touchstone, inspiring a movement for India’s tech sovereignty. By championing this cause, Gen Z is shaping a narrative of a stronger, independent India, making the Kaveri engine a viral symbol of their vision for the future. Also, find out more interesting topics on Indian Book Bazaar.