An important turning point in India-US Defence cooperation is the MoU between GE Aerospace and HAL to jointly build fighter jet engines.
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Introduction
General Electric (GE) Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a state-run Indian aerospace corporation, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant development during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States. The MoU ushers in a new era in the India-US alliance and sets the way for the collaborative production of fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force (IAF). While many nations develop their own fighter aircraft, only a limited handful have the cutting-edge technology necessary to produce jet engines, making this pact of utmost strategic significance.
Transfer of Technology and Indigenously Developed Capabilities
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between GE Aerospace and HAL includes clauses for a sizable transfer of knowledge and the production of fighter aircraft engines made domestically. The agreement covers the possible cooperative manufacturing of F414 engines from GE Aerospace in India. In order to obtain the required export authorization for this collaboration, GE Aerospace is now coordinating with the US authorities.
HAL’s Role in Engine Production
HAL plans to start producing jet engines at its Engine Division facility in Bengaluru once it receives the necessary clearances. It is important to clarify that the collaboration will not be established as a joint venture. Given that it ushers in a new era in India’s relations with the United States, the partnership between GE Aerospace and HAL is a crucial turning point for the country’s aviation industry.
Significance of Jet Engine Technology
While many countries, including India, have successfully produced their own fighter aircraft, it has remained difficult to produce jet engines. By working together, India hopes to end its long-standing struggle to produce its own jet engines and attain independence in this crucial field of aeronautical technology.
India’s Pursuit of Jet Engine Technology
India’s pursuit of jet engine technology can be traced back to the challenges faced during the development of the country’s first indigenous fighter aircraft, the HF-24 Marut. Despite initial setbacks, India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru embarked on developing the Kaveri engine for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) project. However, despite extensive testing and development, the Kaveri engine failed to meet the required parameters for fighter aircraft propulsion.
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