New Delhi, NFAPost: GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly produce fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Under the agreement, GE Aerospace will transfer 80% of the technology required for the production of F 414 fighter jet engines to India, with the aim of enhancing the operational performance of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) MKII. The deal, signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States, marks a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of advanced technologies.
According to a senior official from the Ministry of Defence, 80% of the engine production will take place in India, except for small components. The agreement is expected to be finalized soon, and the official anticipates that India will have access to the engine within three years. This collaboration provides India with access to cutting-edge technologies and signifies a different level and scale of cooperation compared to previous technology acquisitions from countries like Russia, the UK, and France.
The deal reflects the trust India has gained at the highest levels in the United States, as evidenced by the bipartisan support it received. It also demonstrates the confidence the US has in India’s intellectual capabilities and its intellectual property rights (IPR) regime. This partnership strengthens India’s military systems and positions the country as one of the top five nations with access to this advanced technology.
Although the exact number of jet engines to be produced has not been specified by the IAF, the official estimates it to be slightly over 100. The cost details have not been discussed yet. The transfer of technology will provide India with critical defense capabilities, including special coatings for corrosion, machining and coating techniques for turbine blades, nozzle guide vanes, blisk machining, powder metallurgy disc machining, thin-walled titanium casing machining, and laser drilling technology for combustors.
Manufacturing the GE 414 engine in India will offer several benefits, such as reduced turnaround time for maintenance, repair, and overhaul. The official believes that inadequate funding and support have been the main hindrances in India’s pursuit of aircraft engine technology. However, the successful conclusion of this deal marks a significant achievement for India and affirms the country’s integrity and trustworthiness in handling advanced military technologies.
