In a significant boost to India’s defense capabilities, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has finalized a landmark contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the supply of 240 AL-31FP aero engines for Su-30MKI fighter jets. The deal, valued at over ₹26,000 crore, was signed on Monday in a high-profile ceremony attended by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari.
Engine Production and Delivery
The AL-31FP engines will be produced at HAL’s Koraput Division. The contract stipulates a delivery schedule of 30 engines per year, with the entire batch of 240 engines expected to be delivered over the next eight years. This strategic acquisition is aimed at maintaining and enhancing the operational readiness of the Su-30MKI fleet, which is crucial for India’s defense preparedness.
Indigenization and Support
HAL has outlined plans to leverage India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem, including collaborations with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and both public and private sector industries. By the end of the delivery period, HAL aims to increase the indigenization content of the engines to 63%, achieving an average of over 54% throughout the production process. This initiative is expected to boost the indigenous content in the repair and overhaul of aero-engines, further strengthening India’s defense self-reliance.
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