Fighter jet Engine Deal with India to Start this Year: GE Aerospace's Amy Gowder

Defense News ,India :- In a groundbreaking development, GE Aerospace Defence & Systems President Amy Gowder has revealed that progress is on track for a crucial fighter jet engine technology deal between General Electric (GE) and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). The deal, initiated during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, involves the production of 99 F414 engines for India's light combat aircraft (LCA) TEJAS MK-2 program, marking a significant stride in India's aerospace capabilities.

The collaboration aims to bridge a technology gap, with an 80% transfer of technology (ToT), estimated at a value of approximately $1 billion. This strategic partnership is poised to lay the foundation for indigenous development of larger jet engines, potentially paving the way for future exports.

HAL Chief CB Ananthakrishnan expressed optimism about reaching a deal within a year, emphasizing the transformative impact on India's aerospace landscape. He noted that the lack of capabilities in building jet engines would be addressed through this collaboration, bringing advanced technologies into the country and forming the basis for future engine programs to meet the Indian Air Force's evolving needs.

Ananthakrishnan highlighted the unprecedented scale of technology transfer, describing it as a "big game-changer." The deal is expected to result in TEJAS MK-2 fighter jets with significantly improved indigenous content compared to their predecessors, MK-1 and MK-1A. Despite the proposed $1 billion estimate, HAL aims to negotiate a more competitive deal.

HAL's current expertise in engine manufacturing includes the AL-31FP engines for Sukhoi Su-30s under license from Russia and the Shakti engines co-developed with French engine maker Safran. The ToT for F414s will cover 11 critical areas, representing a considerable expansion of technology access compared to previous agreements.

The F414 engine, evolved from the F404 engine powering existing MK-1 and MK-1A variants, is currently imported from the US. Local production of F414 engines is anticipated to increase the indigenous content of MK-2 jets to 75%, a significant improvement over the 55%-60% in MK-1A and 50% in MK-1.

To accommodate the production program, HAL plans to establish a new engine complex, recognizing the insufficiency of existing capacities. In addition to the engines, India will gain access to 11 key technologies, ranging from special coatings to machining and coating processes.

This collaborative effort signifies a major stride towards self-reliance in defense technology for India, positioning the country as a key player in the global aerospace sector.