GE Aerospace is set to begin manufacturing its advanced F414 jet engines in India, marking a significant step in the country's efforts to bolster its domestic defence industry. The announcement was made by Vikram Rai, Chief Executive of GE Aerospace South Asia, at the NDTV World Summit on Monday.
This initiative is a collaborative effort between GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), with production slated to take place at a facility in Bangalore.
The F414 engines will power the Tejas Mk2, India's indigenously developed light combat aircraft. This move aligns with India's strategy to reduce reliance on foreign military imports and foster self-reliance in defence technology.
HAL has already procured 12 F414 engines for the Tejas Mk2 pre-production jets, which will undergo rigorous developmental trials. These trials are crucial for evaluating the performance of the F414-powered Tejas Mk2 before full-scale production commences, expected by 2028-29.
A deal for 99 F414 engines is anticipated to be finalized between HAL and GE by the end of 2024, with production estimated to begin within the next three years and deliveries starting in late 2027 or early 2028.
The F414 engine is renowned for its high thrust and reliability, currently powering advanced fighter aircraft such as the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Its production in India is expected to significantly enhance the Tejas Mk2's capabilities and contribute to India's ambition of becoming a global hub for defence production. This transfer of technology will also strengthen India's aerospace ecosystem, fostering further growth and development in the sector.
"The aerospace industry is the flagbearer of India's manufacturing push," stated Rai at the summit, highlighting the significance of this development. He further revealed that GE Aerospace is investing millions of dollars in its Pune factory as part of its commitment to manufacturing and research and development in India. This investment includes the development of a new engine that boasts a 20% increase in efficiency.
