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The Indian government has taken a significant step towards bolstering its national defense capabilities with the approval of a procurement deal for 240 aero-engines for the Indian Air Force's (IAF) fleet of Su-30 MKI fighter jets. This strategic move, approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Monday, involves the acquisition of AL-31FP aero-engines from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under the 'Buy (Indian)' category. The deal, valued at over Rs 26,000 crore, encompasses all taxes and duties, highlighting the substantial investment made by the government in strengthening the IAF's operational capacity.
The procurement of these engines carries significant implications for India's national security. The Su-30 MKI, a highly capable multirole fighter aircraft, forms a crucial pillar of the IAF's combat strength. Ensuring the availability of reliable and advanced aero-engines is paramount for sustaining the aircraft's operational effectiveness. The decision to source these engines from HAL signifies a strategic commitment to promoting indigenous defense manufacturing, fostering self-reliance and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
The delivery of the procured aero-engines is expected to commence after a year, with the entire consignment being delivered over a period of eight years. This staggered delivery schedule allows for a gradual integration of the new engines into the IAF's existing fleet, minimizing disruptions to operational readiness. Notably, these engines will feature an indigenous content exceeding 54%, a testament to the ongoing efforts to enhance indigenization in the defense sector. The increased indigenous content is attributed to the successful indigenization of key aero-engine components, demonstrating India's growing technological prowess in this critical field.
Source: Cabinet approves procurement of 240 aero-engines for Su-30 MKI aircraft from HAL worth Rs 26,000 cr