SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The world’s largest military procurement in recent years is underway, as the Indian Air Force (IAF) seeks to acquire 114 advanced fighter jets under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender. Boeing, a leading aircraft manufacturer, has responded to the Indian government’s request for information (RFI) with its formidable F-15EX fighter jet.
In 2021, Boeing received a license from the U.S. government to offer the F-15EX to the Indian Air Force, showcasing its commitment to the Indian defence market. The F-15EX, a versatile and proven fighter, was also exhibited at Aero India 2021 in Bengaluru, where it garnered attention for its capabilities and potential fit for India’s defence needs.
One critical aspect of the F-15EX’s offering to India is the choice of engine. While Pratt & Whitney India has been vocal about offering the advanced F100-PW-229 engines for the aircraft on offer to India, recent developments suggest that the engine choice might be different. Sources close to idrw.org indicate that India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has a strong association with General Electric, which may lead to the F-15EX being offered with F110-GE-129 engines.
The United States Air Force decision to switch engines to F110-GE-129 engines over F100-PW-229 engines by Pratt & Whitney for 136 F-15EXs that the company will produce for the USAF till 2031. The F110-GE-129 engine has undergone significant enhancements to meet the specific requirements of the F-15EX. These improvements include increased airflow and engine efficiency, positioning it as a robust option for the aircraft.
In India’s MRFA tender, the F-15EX stands as one of the top contenders, alongside aircraft like the Dassault Rafale and the Gripen-E as per a report in ” The Print”. Its advantage lies in its extended range and increased payload capacity compared to other fighter jets. Additionally, its larger nose enables a more extensive radar antenna, offering a higher detection range, a vital factor in modern air warfare.
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