MIDHANI Providing Special Material Developed For Kaveri Dry Engine And Supply Superalloys for Domestically Manufactured F414 Engines

Defense News ,India :- In a groundbreaking development, the Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) is playing a pivotal role in advancing India's aero engine manufacturing capabilities. The DPSU is currently providing specialized materials for the innovative Kaveri dry engines, a project undertaken by Godrej Aerospace with technical guidance from the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO’s) Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE). Anticipated for completion around mid-2024, the Kaveri engines are set to undergo rigorous trials before obtaining airworthiness certification, opening up possibilities for integration into TEJAS platforms.

MIDHANI's foray into the global supply chain is marked by its strategic supply of nickel-based alloys to a British aerospace company through a Navratna defence firm. This international exposure is crucial as India seeks to finalize a deal with US-based GE Aerospace for domestic manufacturing of F414 fighter jet engines, reinforcing India's pursuit of 'Atmanirbharta' in aero engine manufacturing.

The DPSU, with a rich history of contributing to missions such as Chandrayaan and the upcoming Gaganyaan, is actively engaging with international partners. Notably, MIDHANI is undergoing the process of securing development certification from an American aerospace company, demonstrating its commitment to delivering high-quality products on a global scale.

The unique properties of the materials supplied by MIDHANI, capable of withstanding temperatures beyond 1,000 degrees centigrade and being lighter than standard materials, position the DPSU as a key player in the aerospace industry. The company's visibility is expanding in Europe, benefiting from disruptions in the international supply chain caused by geopolitical conflicts.

MIDHANI is further enhancing its capabilities by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with an indigenous private defence player, exploring the potential for manufacturing critical materials as import substitutions. The company's latest export volume stands at ₹38 crore, with a substantial ₹78 crore in the order book from global markets, demonstrating its growing influence in the aerospace sector.

According to MIDHANI CMD Dr SK Jha, the focus is on aligning with the aerospace segment to meet both domestic and international demands. With ambitious projects commissioned for modernization and expansion, MIDHANI aims to play a significant role in the future of aerospace and aero engines.

Ongoing projects include the supply of critical materials for HAL’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and the development of specialized materials for the Kaveri engines. MIDHANI's versatility is evident in its contributions to combat jets, M-17 helicopters, tanks, and the creation of "Hastealloy," a special-grade steel for de-desulphurization in thermal power plants.

As MIDHANI continues to diversify and expand its capabilities, its role in advancing India's self-reliance in aerospace technology becomes increasingly vital. The company's open order book of ₹1,700 crore and growing revenue underscore its positive trajectory and contributions to India's defense and aerospace sectors.