Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s US visit yielded new developments as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and General Electric (GE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the joint production of GE’s F414 engines in India. The signing of the MoU took place on June 22, 2023, marking a new era for India-US defence ties.
The F414 engines, which are utilised in a range of fighter aircraft such as the F/A-18 Hornet and the Super Hornet, are known for their exceptional performance and reliability. By manufacturing these engines in India, the country will witness a significant boost to its defence capabilities. It will also help reduce India’s dependence on foreign sources for jet engines, a crucial step towards achieving self-reliance in the defence sector.
“For the partnership between India and the US, even the sky is not the limit,” the Prime Minister said. “The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the US work and lead together,” said Biden, describing the ties between the two nations as “one of the most defining” relationships in the 21st century.
The deal will strengthen India’s air power, enabling it to face the twin military threats from neighbouring countries – China and Pakistan. It will also boost the operational preparations of its fighter aircraft and make it a formidable force in the region.
By manufacturing jet engines domestically, India will have greater control over the supply chain, ensuring independence from relying on Russia, France and Israel, and also the timely availability of engines for its defence needs. This will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The collaboration between HAL and GE is expected to generate employment opportunities in the Indian defence industry, contributing to job creation and skill development.
The joint production of the F414 engines will stimulate the domestic manufacturing sector, driving economic growth and self-sufficiency.
This landmark agreement marks a significant milestone in India’s defence industry, as It aligns with the government’s vision of enhancing its domestic capabilities and reducing dependence on imports. The MoU not only bolsters India’s defence capabilities but also contributes to the advancement of the nation’s defence technology and fosters stronger bilateral relations.
