SOURCE: AFI
In a significant step towards bolstering India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has established a Contract Negotiation Committee (CNC) with the aim to finalize the agreement for the local production of GE-F414-INS6 engines by March 2025. This development comes amidst ongoing efforts to enhance India’s aerospace sector under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The GE-F414-INS6, an advanced variant of the F414 engine, is designed to power India’s next-generation combat aircraft, notably the Tejas MkII. With its 98 kN thrust, this engine offers superior performance compared to the F404 engines currently used in the Tejas Mk1 and Mk1A variants.
Up to 80% of the engine’s technology is expected to be transferred, which is unprecedented in terms of depth for such collaborations. This includes critical technologies like hot-end coatings, crystal blades, and laser drilling. iscussions will cover the manufacturing license agreements, technical documentation, training, and support systems necessary for local production. Price negotiations, delivery schedules, and warranties are among the key commercial aspects the CNC will address to ensure the deal is both cost-effective and strategically beneficial.
The negotiations have been ongoing, with high-level visits between both parties indicating a mutual commitment to conclude the deal. An MoU was previously signed between HAL and GE Aerospace in June 2023, laying the groundwork for this partnership. Despite the optimism, the process involves intricate details like finalizing the extent of technology transfer, managing intellectual property rights, and ensuring that the terms meet India’s long-term strategic goals while being commercially viable for GE.