India Set to Begin Talks with GE for Tejas Mk2 Engines, Safran to Power AMCA
India’s fighter jet programs are moving into a crucial phase, with two major international defence collaborations taking shape. On one side, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is preparing to begin detailed negotiations with General Electric (GE) Aerospace of the U.S. for the joint production of advanced jet engines. At the same time, French engine-maker Safran is joining forces with India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to co-develop a cutting-edge powerplant for the country’s ambitious fifth-generation fighter, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
GE-HAL Pact for Tejas Mk2
Back in 2022, HAL and GE Aerospace signed a landmark agreement to manufacture GE’s F414 engines in India. These engines are set to power the upcoming Tejas Mk2 fighter jets, a key project for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Mk2 is intended to be a more capable and larger version of the indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, filling an important gap in squadron strength as older aircraft are phased out.
According to officials, commercial negotiations between HAL and GE are about to begin, nearly two years after the pact was signed. The target is to conclude discussions within three months and finalize the framework for joint production. Once sealed, this deal would mark one of the most significant steps in India’s defence manufacturing journey, as it would involve not just assembly but also the transfer of advanced technology.
Delays in finalizing the agreement, however, have already raised concerns. The Tejas Mk2 program is time-sensitive—every pushback in engine production risks slowing down the IAF’s plans to strengthen its fighter fleet.
Safran and DRDO to Power the AMCA
Parallel to the HAL-GE talks, India has made progress on its fifth-generation fighter program, the AMCA. The DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru will be working with French aerospace giant Safran to develop an advanced engine specifically for this platform.
The AMCA is India’s answer to future aerial warfare needs—a stealthy, twin-engine fighter designed to compete with the most advanced jets in the world. For such an aircraft, engine technology is critical. By teaming up with Safran, India aims to bridge its long-standing gap in indigenous jet engine development and ensure that its next-generation fighter truly measures up to global standards.
Why This Matters
India has tried for decades to develop its own combat jet engine technology, but progress has been slow. Past efforts, like the Kaveri engine project, faced setbacks and failed to meet operational requirements. Partnering with proven global players like GE and Safran is expected to give India the technological push it needs—while still ensuring that much of the manufacturing happens within the country.
For the IAF, these partnerships are more than just deals—they’re essential for meeting its squadron requirements in the next decade. The Tejas Mk2 is expected to replace ageing fighters like the MiG-29 and Jaguar, while the AMCA will eventually join the fleet as India’s stealth frontline aircraft.
If negotiations move quickly and development stays on track, these projects could redefine India’s aerospace capabilities and mark a turning point in its journey toward defence self-reliance.
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