India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), under DRDO, plans to convert an IAF IL-76 into a Flying Test Bed for in-flight testing of the Kaveri Derivative Engine (KDE) and future AMCA engines. This move aims to reduce reliance on Russia’s Gromov Institute and accelerate indigenous jet engine development. The dry KDE, producing 50 kN of thrust, is slated for testing in 2025.