Aviation

Is HAL Planning to Fit the Rafale’s M-88 Engine into Tejas?

Brazil Could Buy India’s LCA Tejas If IAF Acquires Embraer C-390 Aircraft

India is at the forefront of developing fighter jets for its defense sector and is prepared to face any challenge. The Tejas Mark 1A, a notable success, has garnered attention for its capability to carry various weapons and integrate advanced avionics.

However, a significant challenge remains with the engine. Currently, India relies on foreign nations to provide engines for its fighter jets. To address this, India has made an agreement with GE Engine makers for supply. However, supply chain issues have led to delays in engine delivery. As a result, HAL is considering an alternative: switching to the European Eurojet, which powers the Rafale fighter jet.

How will be the Tejas Mark 2 compared to the F-16 block 50/52?:Click here

In the early stages of the Tejas MkII’s development around 2010, the Indian Air Force (IAF) preferred the European Eurojet EJ200 engine used in the Eurofighter Typhoon. They wanted to diversify their engine suppliers to reduce dependency on a single foreign entity. However, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) chose the GE F414IN6 engine for the Tejas MkII due to its cost-effectiveness.

The tejas mk2 design will fly with the GE F414IN6, but the IAF’s initial interest in the EJ200 highlights the need to consider multiple options in defense acquisitions.

India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Tejas Mk1 and Mk1A light combat aircraft currently use General Electric GE-404 engines. Delivery delays from GE sparked discussions about alternatives, like the Safran M-88-3 engines used in Dassault’s Rafale jets. However, replacing the GE-404 with the M-88-3 faces several challenges.

The GE-404 engine is known for reliability and performance, producing 84 kN of thrust with afterburner compared to the M-88-3’s 75 kN. The dimensions also differ, requiring significant internal changes to the fuselage for an engine swap.

Building the LCA Tejas Mark 2 prototype could take longer than expected:Click here

Safran’s M-88-3 engines are optimized for the Rafale program, and scaling production to meet Indian needs would require significant adjustments and investments. Transitioning engines would also involve establishing new supply chains and logistical frameworks, including sourcing components and training personnel.

Any new engine integration would need rigorous certification and testing, extending timelines and increasing costs. Engine selection also considers geopolitical and economic factors, strategic partnerships, and domestic industrial benefits. lca tejas mk2

While the Safran M-88-3 engine offers competitive performance, transitioning is complicated. The GE-404’s higher thrust, existing integration in the Tejas program, and established supply chain make it the more practical choice currently. Safran’s production capabilities would need significant adaptation to meet India’s needs.

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.