India Seals Rs 26,000-Crore Deal for Su-30MKI Aero Engines with HAL

The Indian defence ministry has inked a Rs 26,000-crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) for 240 aero engines for Su-30MKI aircraft. The deal emphasizes the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative and aims to bolster the operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force amid concerns over depleting fighter squadrons.

On Monday, the defence ministry finalized a Rs 26,000-crore agreement with state-owned aerospace giant Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) for the acquisition of 240 aero engines designated for Su-30MKI aircraft.

The Koraput division of HAL will manufacture the engines, addressing the Indian Air Force's need to maintain the Su-30 fleet's operational readiness. This contract, pivotal to the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari.

HAL is set to deliver 30 engines annually over the next eight years, involving support from MSMEs and various public and private industries in the country. By the end of the delivery schedule, HAL aims to enhance the indigenous content up to 63 per cent, contributing to greater self-reliance in repair and overhaul processes.

(With inputs from agencies.)