Safran Begins Work On M88 Engine Maintenance Hub In Hyderabad
The French aerospace group Safran has broken ground for a new maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility in Hyderabad dedicated to its M88 military jet engine — the powerplant for Dassault Rafale fighters. The facility, set up under Safran’s Indian arm, marks a key step in the firm’s plans to deepen its footprint in India’s aerospace and defence sector.
Scope Of The Project And Investment Details
The MRO facility — reported to be worth around US $40 million — aims to provide lifecycle maintenance services for M88 engines, including overhaul of critical components. Once operational, it is expected to support maintenance needs for Rafale jets operating with the Indian Air Force, reducing reliance on overseas servicing.
Significance For India’s Defence And Aerospace Ambitions
The move comes as India pushes to develop domestic capacity in aircraft engine maintenance and overhaul — a capability considered strategic for operational readiness and self-reliance. The facility may contribute to faster turnaround times for maintenance, lower costs for engine upkeep, and greater control over the maintenance cycle of combat aircraft.
What Lies Ahead
Safran’s facility in Hyderabad will be closely watched as a potential anchor in India’s evolving defence-industrial base. If successful, it could pave the way for more extensive aerospace-component manufacturing and maintenance infrastructure in the country.
