In a recent landmark announcement during the Indian Prime Minister’s state visit to the U.S., India unveiled a significant agreement between American multinational corporation General Electric (GE) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This crucial deal entails the transfer of critical jet engine technologies and the manufacture of GE’s F414 engine for India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk2.
The announcement indicates a considerable milestone in India’s pursuit of advanced combat jet engine technology. Leading on from the India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X), this agreement holds promise for potential collaboration between Indian and U.S. tech startups.
Understanding GE’s F414 Engine
GE’s F414 engine is a turbofan engine, utilized by the US Navy for over three decades. It features a dual-channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC), a six-stage high-pressure compressor, an advanced high-pressure turbine, and a ‘fueldraulic’ system for nozzle area control. The F414 engine has powered military aircraft in eight nations, marking it as a trusted choice for modern fighter jets.
India’s LCA Tejas Mk2 and the F414 Engine
In the context of India’s LCA Tejas Mk2, the F414 engine holds immense significance. The Indian-specific version of the engine, F414-INS6, has been selected by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) of the DRDO for use in the LCA Tejas Mk2. This decision underlines India’s resolve to strengthen its indigenous defence capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
The LCA Tejas Mk2 is an upgraded version of the indigenous fighter aircraft developed in India. The aircraft can carry eight Beyond-Visual-Range (BVR) missiles, and it integrates both native and advanced weaponry from other countries. The LCA Mk2 promises improved range and mission, aiming to replace the Jaguars, MiG-29s, and Mirage 2000s as they retire in the coming decade.
Implication of the India-US Jet Engine Deal
Despite India’s push for self-reliance in critical technologies, the country has struggled to join the ranks of nations capable of manufacturing advanced engines for fighter aircraft. This deal is groundbreaking, representing a significant step towards mastering this technology.
The agreement was a highlight of multiple discussions between India’s Defence Minister and the US Secretary of Defence, as well as meetings between National Security Advisors of the two countries. The DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) had initiated development of the GTX-37 engine for the LCA, followed by the ambitious Kaveri engine project in 1989. However, despite the development of several prototype and core engines, these did not meet the requirements for fighter aircraft.
The technology transfer pact finally puts an end to what the former PM of India had referred to as the “technology denial regime” imposed on India by the West.
Recent Developments in India’s Defence Sector
India’s recent achievements in the defence sector include successful testing of indigenous weapons and systems like the Rustom-2 drone, Light Combat Helicopter, Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile, Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile, and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft.
In terms of naval forces, India launched and commissioned several indigenous naval vessels, such as the INS Karanj submarine and the INS Himgiri stealth frigate. Additionally, India finalized procurement contracts for defence equipment from foreign countries, including Barak missiles from Israel, S-400 air defence systems from Russia, and Rafale fighter jets from France.
The cooperation in critical and emerging technology with GE and the U.S, marks a significant development in India’s efforts to achieve self-reliance in critical technologies.
