Dismissing rumors that other French-made engines are being considered, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has firmly reiterated that the TEJAS MK-2 fighter jet is being constructed primarily around the GE F414 engine.
The TEJAS MK-2 airframe, weight distribution, cooling systems, and thrust needs are all optimized for the F414 platform, according to HAL Chairman DK Sunil, rendering any consideration of an alternative engine design superfluous and incompatible. This demonstrates HAL’s faith in GE’s established turbofan technology and its history of working with Indian fighter programs.
HAL said that recent rumors implying that India could investigate French propulsion options are baseless. In addition to requiring significant redesigns, the Chairman noted that adding a new engine type would cause delays in the schedule for prototype rollouts and induction planning.
Regarding the issue of global trade tensions, namely the U.S. tariffs placed on Indian exports, HAL emphasized that these economic actions have no impact on defense cooperation between the United States and India. The F414 engine’s manufacturing expansion and possible technology transfer negotiations with GE are still ongoing.
The U.S.-India agreement signed earlier ensures supply of GE F414 engines for TEJAS MK-2 and lays the groundwork for local manufacturing partnerships. Production in India is set to be scaled up under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, with safeguards in place to ensure engine supply security and reduced foreign dependency.
HAL’s statement reaffirms India’s thrust towards self-reliance in combat aircraft development while maintaining international technology partnerships where they bring proven reliability and performance.
The previously inked U.S.-India deal guarantees the supply of GE F414 engines for the TEJAS MK-2 and establishes the foundation for local manufacturing collaborations. Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat program, production in India is expected to increase, with measures in place to guarantee engine supply security and lessen reliance on outside sources.
In its statement, HAL reiterates India’s commitment to developing combat aircraft independently while preserving global technological alliances where they contribute demonstrated dependability and effectiveness.