Cabinet Committee Approves Procurement of 240 Aero-Engines for Su-30MKI Fighter Jet

The Cabinet Committee on Security approved the proposal for procurement of 240 aero-engines (AL-31FP) for Su-30MKI aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) under Buy (Indian) category from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at a cost of over Rs 26,000 crore inclusive of all taxes and duties, the ministry announced. The engines will have indigenous content of over 54 per cent, which will be manufactured at Koraput division of HAL. This is enhanced due to the indigenisation of some key components of aero-engines.

The delivery of these aero-engines will commence after one year and be completed over a period of eight years, as stated in the announcement. The ministry emphasized that the supply by HAL will meet the fleet sustenance requirement of IAF to continue their unhindered operations and strengthen the defence preparedness of the country. The engines are crucial for the Su-30MKI aircraft of the Indian Air Force and their indigenous content will contribute significantly to the domestic manufacturing capabilities.

This procurement is an important step towards self-reliance in defence production and will also boost the Make in India initiative. Overall, these aero-engines are part of a strategic move by the government to enhance the defense capabilities of the country.