SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively seeking to collaborate with domestic private sector companies to secure the future of its Mirage 2000 fleet by focusing on the local manufacturing of spares for the SNECMA M53 engine. This engine, an afterburning turbofan developed by Snecma (now part of Safran Aircraft Engines) for the Dassault Mirage 2000, is crucial for sustaining the operational capability of the IAF’s Mirage-2000 aircraft until at least 2035.
The Mirage 2000, a multi-role fighter jet, has been a significant asset for the IAF since its induction in the 1980s. The SNECMA M53 engine powers these aircraft, offering versatility and high performance with its thrust capabilities. With plans to maintain the fleet operational for another decade, the IAF’s strategy includes ensuring a steady supply of engine spares and wearables, which are essential for regular maintenance and operational readiness.
The IAF has been exploring partnerships with Indian companies known for their expertise in precision engineering and aerospace components. This move is part of a broader policy push towards defence indigenization, where the government has encouraged private sector participation in defence production.
One notable example of such collaboration was the establishment of Max Aero Engines Private Limited (MAEPL), a joint venture between Snecma and Max Aerospace, which has been involved in the maintenance of military aircraft engines, including the M53, in India. Although this joint venture was primarily for maintenance, it set a precedent for further cooperation in manufacturing.
As the IAF plans to keep its Mirage-2000 fleet flying until 2035, the focus on local manufacturing of M53 engine spares is not just about maintenance but also about building a sustainable defence manufacturing ecosystem in India.
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