It appears that General Electric (GE) is reportedly in discussions to produce jet engines for Indian military aircraft. The deal is expected to be announced during an official state visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United States on June 22, hosted by President Joe Biden. However, neither the White House nor GE has officially commented on this matter yet.
The United States is seeking to deepen its ties with India as part of its strategy to counter China’s growing influence in the region. The move towards stronger defense cooperation with India is a significant aspect of this strategy. However, China, through an op-ed in its state mouthpiece, The Global Times, has warned India to be cautious about the United States and its intentions. China suggests that the rivalry between India and China is a creation of the West, claiming that the two countries should not fall victim to manipulation by outside powers.
In relation to the production of jet engines, the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has expressed its interest in using GE’s 414 engine for its second-generation light-combat aircraft. Discussions are underway regarding the possibility of domestic production of these engines, with GE offering technology transfer to HAL as a licensed manufacturer. India’s objective is to acquire more technology through this collaboration. However, the deal has not been finalized and requires notification to the US Congress.
HAL is currently utilizing a lighter GE engine for the 83 light combat aircraft it is manufacturing for the Indian Air Force. India has plans to produce over 350 fighter jets for its air force and navy over the next two decades, potentially utilizing GE 414 engines.
Earlier this year, the United States and India announced a broader joint partnership aimed at encouraging collaboration between companies from both countries, particularly in the areas of military equipment and cutting-edge technology.
India has long been the largest importer of arms and heavily relies on Russia for approximately half of its defense supplies. However, tensions and conflicts have delayed the supply of Russian spares necessary for India to maintain its tank and fighter jet fleets. In April, the defense ministers of India and Russia, Rajnath Singh and Sergei Shoigu, held talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and agreed to strengthen their defense partnership.