Why Jet Engines Aren’t “Made In China”
Summary
The article analyzes why China has struggled to indigenously produce jet engines, arguing that jet propulsion is a high-complexity, low-margin, heavily regulated area where tacit process knowledge and mature supplier networks matter more than sheer capital. It contrasts Western oligopolies with China’s state-led catch-up strategy, discusses civil-military fusion, and assesses economic viability and opportunity costs, suggesting commercial jet engines are a challenging target for rapid domestic success.