India Seals Rs 26,000 Crore Deal for Aero Engines with HAL

The Indian defence ministry has finalized a Rs 26,000 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd for 240 aero engines to power Su-30MKI aircraft. This move is set to boost the operational capability of the Indian Air Force and support India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative by enhancing domestic aero-engine manufacturing.

The Indian defence ministry has finalized a significant Rs 26,000 crore deal with state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) for the procurement of 240 aero engines designed for Su-30MKI aircraft. This deal is a substantial milestone for India's Make in India campaign, aiming to boost the country's self-reliance in aerospace manufacturing.

The aero-engines will be produced by HAL's Koraput division, fulfilling the Indian Air Force's need to maintain the operational capability of its Su-30 fleet. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the agreement as a crucial step towards the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, emphasizing its role in strengthening domestic aero-engine production.

The contract, signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, stipulates that HAL will supply 30 engines annually, completing delivery over eight years. The production process will involve the country's defence manufacturing ecosystem, including MSMEs and public and private industries, aiming to increase the indigenous content of the engines.

As the Indian Air Force faces concerns over its depleting fighter squadron numbers, this agreement is expected to bolster its capabilities. The move also addresses delays in the supply of Tejas jets by HAL, aiming to stabilize the IAF's fleet strength.

(With inputs from agencies.)