GE Aerospace, an Ohio-based aerospace company, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) to manufacture fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The agreement includes the potential joint production of GE Aerospace’s F414 engines within India, pending necessary export authorization from the US government.

This collaboration is a significant achievement, coinciding with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official state visit to the United States. It also aligns with GE Aerospace’s commitment to supply 99 engines for the IAF’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2 program.

H Lawrence Culp Jr, CEO of GE Aerospace, expressed confidence in the unmatched quality of their F414 engines, emphasizing the economic and national security benefits for both countries. He highlighted the role of this agreement in furthering the vision of closer cooperation between the United States and India, as envisioned by President Biden and Prime Minister Modi.

Retired Lieutenant General Sanjay Kulkarni hailed the pact as historic, emphasizing its significance for the IAF’s Tejas fighter jets. He praised the F414 engines for their advanced capabilities, including high thrust and fuel efficiency.

GE Aerospace has a longstanding presence in India, with a history dating back over four decades. Their collaboration with India’s Aeronautical Development Agency and HAL began in 1986, supporting the development of the LCA with F404 engines. Presently, the company’s F404 and F414 engines are integral to the LCA Mk1 and LCA Mk2 programs, with 75 F404 engines delivered and another 99 on order for LCA Mk1A. Additionally, eight F414 engines have been supplied as part of an ongoing development program for LCA Mk2.

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