During his visit to Washington DC, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the signing of a historic agreement between GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the production of fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force. This agreement reflects a significant change in US policy, as it allows the sharing of advanced defense technologies with non-NATO countries like India.
The deal between GE Aerospace and HAL opens up new possibilities for defense cooperation between the US and India. It also symbolizes India’s efforts to strengthen its ties with the US amidst China’s increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.
The agreement paves the way for joint production of F414 jet engines, which will be used to power the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2 fleet of the Indian Air Force. GE Aerospace will transfer approximately 80% of the engine’s technologies to HAL, ending the longstanding US practice of withholding advanced technologies from India.
The Biden administration has expressed its commitment to expedite the approval process for granting government clearance to GE Aerospace and to seek approval from the US Congress for the transfer of technologies for joint production in India.
India has been highlighting the need for access to advanced defense technologies, citing its reliance on Russia due to limited cooperation from the US and other Western nations. This deal marks a significant step towards addressing India’s concerns regarding its dependency on Russian military hardware and technologies.
GE Aerospace has been involved in the development and production of India’s Light Combat Aircraft since 1986. The company’s F404 and F414 engines have played a crucial role in the LCA Mk1 and Mk2 programs. The new agreement with HAL strengthens GE Aerospace’s commitment to build 99 engines for the Indian Air Force as part of the LCA Mk2 program.
The partnership between GE Aerospace and HAL provides economic and national security benefits to both countries. It positions GE Aerospace to create a family of products in India, including the F404 engine that powers the LCA Mk1 and Mk1A aircraft. It also opens opportunities for collaboration between GE Aerospace and the Indian government on the development of the AMCA Mk2 engine.
The F414 engine by GE Aerospace has an impressive track record, with over five million flight hours and eight nations operating or ordering F414-powered aircraft. This engine has proven to be reliable and efficient, meeting the highest quality standards.
The collaboration between GE Aerospace and HAL marks a significant milestone in defense cooperation between India and the US. It sets the stage for enhanced technological exchange and strengthens India’s defense capabilities.
