Saurabh Joshi analyses the significance of the agreement to produce GE F414 fighter aircraft engines in India and its far-reaching consequences for India’s military aviation industry, indigenous fighter capability and defence ties with the U.S.
DRDO Chairman S. Christopher told the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence about a requirement of INR 800 crore to develop the LCA Mk2, adding the IAF had committed to 201 fighters.
“Unfortunately the LCA has not been able to meet the carrier capability required. So that is why we need an alternate aircraft now,” said navy chief, Admiral Sunil Lanba.