India News : In a major step towards strengthening the Indian Air Force, India will soon begin manufacturing GE Aerospace engines for the indigenous fighter jet Tejas Mk2. The development comes after a landmark deal between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the U.S. defense giant General Electric Aerospace.
In addition, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has finalized an agreement between Bengaluru’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) and French aerospace firm Safran. The collaboration aims to jointly develop engines for India’s upcoming fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
According to reports, the Indian government aims to conclude final negotiations with GE and HAL within the next three months. This will pave the way for domestic production of F414 engines, specifically designed for the Tejas Mk2 program.
The GE-HAL agreement was first announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s U.S. visit in June 2023. Although it initially awaited clearance from the U.S. Congress, the deal later stalled. Talks on the engine collaboration, however, have been ongoing for nearly a decade.
GE has now agreed to transfer 80% of the engine technology to India—an increase from the earlier 58%—though certain sensitive components remain excluded. Experts believe this level of technology transfer marks a significant leap for India’s indigenous fighter jet program.
With Tejas Mk2 engines set to be manufactured in India, the move is expected to bolster the country’s defense self-reliance and significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
