Even after the ongoing trade tensions with the United States, India is reportedly finalising a USD 1 billion agreement with GE Aerospace to acquire 113 additional GE-404 engines for the homegrown Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, according to ANI.

Defence sources told ANI that talks between the two sides are almost complete, with the deal likely to be signed by September. This procurement will help Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) fulfil its total requirement of 212 GE-404 engines.

HAL plans to deliver 83 LCA Tejas aircraft by 2029-30, followed by 97 LCA Mark 1As by 2033-34. These jets will replace the MiG-21, which was recently retired after serving the Indian Air Force for six decades.

Officials said GE Aerospace will supply two GE-404 engines per month going forward. HAL is also in talks to buy GE-414 engines with 80 per cent technology transfer to support future fighter aircraft projects.

Engines for next-generation jets

India needs around 200 GE-414 engines for the LCA Mark 2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Officials indicated that a USD 1.5 billion deal for these engines could be finalised in the coming months.

The Ministry of Defence and Air Headquarters fully back the indigenous fighter jet programme. Sources said the project will strengthen domestic defence production and benefit small and medium enterprises. India is also working with French company Safran to develop its own fighter jet engine as part of its goal to achieve self-reliance in defence technology.

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