Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has officially countered recent media reports that claimed negotiations with General Electric (GE) regarding the local production of GE-F414 engines for its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2 program have stalled. In a statement released on Tuesday, the defense public sector undertaking labeled these assertions as both factually incorrect and misleading, affirming its unwavering commitment to the LCA Mk2 initiative.
The clarification came in response to a report suggesting that discussions between HAL and GE had slowed, raising concerns that HAL might be considering alternative engine suppliers. In its response, HAL firmly stated that talks with GE are progressing well and are on schedule. The company emphasized that it is not engaged in negotiations with any other engine manufacturers for the crucial LCA Mk2 project.
“The report is factually incorrect and misleading. HAL reiterates that negotiations with GE are on track and progressing well, and that HAL is not in talks with any other company regarding engines for LCA Mk2. Any information suggesting otherwise is incorrect,” the HAL statement indicated.
The GE-F414-INS6 engine has been designated as the powerplant for the LCA Mk2, an upgraded variant of India’s Tejas fighter jet, which is currently being developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) for the Indian Air Force. The LCA Mk2 is anticipated to come equipped with improved range, payload capabilities, and avionics. A critical aspect of the GE-HAL partnership includes technology transfer and domestic manufacturing, aligning closely with India’s Make in India initiative. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed on June 6, 2023, with a contract negotiation committee set up in December 2024, aiming for finalization of the agreement by March 2025.
In its statement, HAL also cautioned against the circulation of unverified information within the sensitive defense sector. The company underscored that such reports could undermine stakeholder confidence and potentially disrupt national security initiatives. HAL urged media outlets to confirm facts via official channels before disseminating information related to strategic defense projects.
This clarification indirectly relates to other ongoing speculations within the defense community, including rumors about Japan’s IHI XF9-1 engine potentially being offered for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). HAL’s reaffirmation of its commitment to GE indicates that the focus remains firmly on finalizing the LCA Mk2 roadmap as originally planned.
With the LCA Mk2 set to play a pivotal role in modernizing India’s aging fighter fleet, the timely execution of the engine production deal is viewed as vital. HAL’s public stance not only signifies its intent to maintain transparency but also highlights its dedication to advancing India’s defense self-reliance agenda.
