Hindustan Aeronautics Faces Challenges in Combat Aircraft Engine Deal

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is experiencing delays and potential price increases in its GE-414 engine deal for the LCA Mark-2 aircraft. The GE-404 engine supply for the LCA Mark1A aircraft, already overdue by 18 months, won't begin until March 2025. Delays are impacting India's fighter aircraft development projects.

As Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) faces delays in engine supplies, concerns are rising over the cost of the deal with an American firm for the GE-414 engines, sources reported. Discussions between HAL and GE focus on the 98 Kilo Newton thrust GE-414 engines intended for the LCA Mark-2 aircraft.

Delays, exceeding 18 months, already shadow the GE-404 engines designated for the LCA Mark1A aircraft, with no deliveries expected before March 2025. Ongoing talks are likely to further influence the deal's cost, sources informed ANI.

The GE-414 engine initiative is crucial to India's homegrown fighter aircraft program, contributing to a 4th generation aircraft development. Supply chain issues are credited for the GE-404 delay, attributed to the American OEM, sources indicate.

These engine-related setbacks are hampering two vital indigenous fighter aircraft projects, subsequently affecting the Indian Air Force's operational readiness. In response, the defense ministry has established a committee under the Defense Secretary to recommend enhancements in the Air Force's capability development.

Three primary fighter aircraft projects experiencing these challenges include the LCA Mark 1A, LCA Mark-2, and the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The IAF has ordered 83 LCA Mark1A fighters and is negotiating for an additional 97.

The AMCA project is poised to become the Air Force's cornerstone in the coming decades, representing the most advanced of the projects in progress. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)