India Set to Commence F414 Engines Domestic Production This Year, Accelerating Tejas Mk2 and AMCA Programs

India anticipates starting the domestic production of General Electric's F414 jet engines before the end of 2025, according to recent statements by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

Speaking at a defence event, Mr. Singh confirmed that discussions with GE Aerospace concerning the necessary technology transfer and manufacturing arrangements are nearing conclusion, with commercial terms largely settled.

These high-performance turbofan engines are crucial for India's future air power, designated to equip the upcoming Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk2 and the ambitious fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Establishing local production capability for the F414 is a major step in India's drive towards self-reliance ('Aatmanirbhar Bharat') in the critical defence sector.

The manufacturing will be undertaken by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) following a significant agreement valued at approximately $1 billion, finalised with GE Aerospace in August 2023.

This deal notably includes the transfer of 80% of the engine's technology to India, a key element for building indigenous capacity.

Defence Secretary Singh underscored that this initiative strongly supports the Indian government's objective of strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.

State-owned HAL, along with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), are central to executing this complex project.

The localisation of F414 production is expected to provide a substantial boost to India's aerospace ecosystem, foster job creation, and significantly reduce the nation's reliance on foreign suppliers for advanced jet engine technology.

The foundation for this manufacturing agreement was laid during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the United States in 2023, signifying a deepening of defence cooperation between the two nations.

The F414 engines, recognized globally for their reliability and advanced performance characteristics – as demonstrated in aircraft like the US Navy's F/A-18 Super Hornet – are anticipated to considerably enhance the operational strength and combat readiness of the Indian Air Force (IAF) as they integrate into the Tejas Mk2 and AMCA platforms in the coming years.

 

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[Foxbat]

Hopefully will start production end of year as planned. This project has been on negotiations since 2023 it should not be dragged on any longer. I understand there are many grey areas which needs further discussions on the deal and the production planning. Now that the deal is sealed HAL and DRDO will hasten this project without shifting timeline on the production.

 

[GhoshDiganta]

If the deal is signed by next month, I think production might start by early to mid 2027. This will ensure uninterrupted flow of engines into the Tejas Mk2 production. Although The quality and certification also be ensured by both HAL and GE.

 

[Senapati]

Do not waste time on delay.
Do it fast.This GE414 will be our engine for Tejas Mk2 AMCA and TEDBF.If possible do some joint development with GE for extra thrust and better engine life for targeted110kN.
Do not delay in good things.

 

[nivas9531]

Depending and trusting on G E will be proved an great blunder in future for india no plan B after this much of delay in F404 engines
Tomorrow GE stops any time if it intended because india can do nothing as india did nothing earlier for f 404