IAF and HAL Close to Finalizing Deal with GE Aerospace for F414 Engine: Advancing LCA Mk2 and AMCA Programs
An agreement is close to being finalised between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) with GE Aerospace Defence & Systems for the F414 engine. This development marks a significant advancement for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) initiatives.
Last month, GE President Amy Gowder provided an update on the deal, mentioning that a comprehensive technical proposal will be sent to HAL shortly. An agreement outlining component specifications and costs is anticipated to be finalised before summer, setting the stage for engine production.
Deliveries are expected to be completed within three years, based on the needs of IAF and DRDO. The agreement, worth close to $1 billion, involves a remarkable 80% technology transfer, covering hot-end coating, crystal blades, and laser drilling technology for the F414 engines.
These engines are set to be used in both the Mk2 version of the LCA and the initial batches of the AMCA. This represents a notable improvement over the existing GE F404 engines utilised in the LCA Mk1A and previous LCA versions.
The agreement enhances India’s domestic fighter jet initiatives and cements its important partnership with the US. The transfer of technology is expected to augment India's aerospace proficiencies and maybe facilitate forthcoming partnerships.