China established its first aero engine institute in Nanchang, Jiangxi province, on Monday, in an effort to boost the country’s aero-engine industry, as well as wean itself from foreign suppliers.

The institute, which was jointly created by China’s leading aero tech giant Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) and Nanchang Hangkong University, aims to train high-end talents and carry out scientific research on engine-making.

“Aero engines are the gems of modern industrial manufacturing. They are often used to gauge a country’s comprehensive national power and technological capabilities. The establishment of China’s first aero engine institute is a fruit of cooperation between enterprises and universities, which will inject China’s engine industry with vitality,” Guo Zhongjie, Party chief of Nanchang Hangkong University, told Chinanews.cn.

China is gearing up to realize its dream of “taking off” by boosting a global aviation power. It goes all out with the state will and nationwide strength, targeting to have its own aircraft with home-made aero-engine.

According to Xinhua, China plans to catch up or surpass their western peers in 20 years. The plan outlined three phases for development: fill a vacancy, catch up, and then become equals.