Despite Trump administration’s imposition of 50% tariffs upon India w.e.f 27-08-2025, India is close to finalising a $ 1 billion deal with General Electric (GE) for 113 fighter jet engines to support its Light Combat Aircraft program (Tejas Mark 1A Fighters). This agreement follows a previous deal for 99 engines and aims to enhance India’s defense capabilities amid rising tariffs from the U.S. GE is expected to supply two engines per month.
It seems U.S. pressure is working upon India whether it is in defense procurement or reduction of purchase of Russian crude oil. The GE fighter jet engines deal is likely to be finalised by September 2025. India is also negotiating a separate deal for 200 GE-414 engines for the next-generation LCA Mark 2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which includes a significant technology transfer component for next-generation LCA Mk2 fighters.
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This deal is crucial for ensuring a steady supply of engines, thereby supporting India’s goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Its primary focus is to support India’s air force modernisation and indigenisation efforts by ensuring a steady supply of engines for its indigenous combat aircraft. India, GE, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are involved in this deal.
India absolutely lacks manufacturing capabilities in critical sectors and defense is one of them. Deals like these expose the lies and jumlabaazi of Modi govt that it regularly peddles. India is still decades away from Make In India/Made In India and self sufficiency says Praveen Dalal.