India and US Deepen Defense Ties: Tejas Mk-2 Program and Joint Engine Production

India and the United States are advancing their defense partnership, including discussions on joint production of critical components. A delegation from HAL is scheduled to visit the US this month for the fifth round of talks regarding the joint production of the GE F414-INS6 engine in India. The F414 engines are vital for the Tejas Mk-2 fighter jet and the initial phase of the AMCA. The agreement will include a substantial transfer of technology, although the engine’s design and development will be managed through a separate collaboration with Safran of France. The Tejas Mk-2 is expected to have its inaugural flight in 2027, and the Indian Air Force intends to incorporate it into its fleet by 2031.