WASHINGTON: The GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited collaboration to manufacture fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force has received approval from the US Congress. The agreement relates to India's domestic jet engine production.
The accord discussed during prime minister Narendra Modi's visit will now be advanced by the Biden administration, opening the door for unprecedented technology transfer and licencing agreements. The agreement, which is seen as a game-changing one, is anticipated to solidify further when President Joe Biden travels to India for the G20 conference.
The media reported that this arrangement bridges the technology gap in jet engine development, and subsequently reinforces its defense capabilities, especially considering regional complexities.
The agreement encompasses 80 per cent technology transfer by GE, estimated to value around $1 billion.
The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) MKII's operational performance will be improved as a result of this technology transfer. According to the agreement, GE Aerospace's F414 engines would be jointly produced in India for the Light Combat Aircraft Mk2 programme of the Air Force.