In New Delhi, India, there are ongoing delays in the supply of engines for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark1A. The price of the deal with the American company for the GE-414 engines is expected to increase. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and GE are in discussions about the 98 Kilo Newton thrust GE-414 engines for the LCA Mark-2 aircraft. The GE-404 engines for the LCA Mark1A have already been delayed by over 18 months, with supplies not expected until March 2025.
The GE-414 engine project is crucial for India's indigenous fighter aircraft program, which aims to develop a 4th generation aircraft. The delays in the GE-404 engines are due to supply chain issues faced by the American manufacturer. These delays have impacted the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force.
The Indian defence ministry has formed a committee under the Defence Secretary to provide recommendations on enhancing the Indian Air Force's capabilities. The three critical fighter aircraft development projects include the LCA Mark 1A, LCA Mark-2, and the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The Indian Air Force has already ordered 83 LCA Mark1A fighters and plans to acquire 97 more. The AMCA project is expected to be the most advanced and will be a key component of the force in the coming decades.
GE stands for General Electric, which is a big company from the United States that makes many things, including engines for airplanes.
LCA stands for Light Combat Aircraft, which is a type of small and fast airplane used by the Indian Air Force for fighting.
HAL stands for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which is an Indian company that makes aircraft and helicopters for the Indian military.
The GE-414 engine is a powerful engine made by General Electric, used in fighter jets to help them fly fast and perform well in combat.
The GE-404 engine is another type of engine made by General Electric, used in older models of fighter jets like the LCA Mark1A.
The Indian Air Force is the air branch of the Indian military, responsible for protecting India's skies and supporting ground forces.
AMCA stands for Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, which is a future project to develop a new type of fighter jet for the Indian Air Force.
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