Question: Will the Minister of DEFENCE be pleased to satate :-

(a) whether it is a fact that India is still dependant on foreign countries for its requirement of engines for Light Combat Aircraft (LCA);

(b) if so, the reasons therefor; and

(c) the steps taken by Government so far to be self-reliant in this regard?

Answer: Minister of Defence (Shri A.K. Antony)

(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) initiated a project for design and development of an Aero-engine in 1989 for requirements of combat aircraft. Since then, a considerable progress has been made in development of aero-engine. However, full objectives have not been achieved, like desired thrust. Hence, GE-F404 Engine has been selected as power plant for Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-I. LCA Mk-II requires a higher thrust class Engine, therefore, GE-F414 Engine has been chosen as power plant for LCA Mk-II. Both engines are imported from M/s General Electric, USA.

(c) LCA Programme (Mk-I & Mk-II) has already gone ahead with alternate engine (GE-F404 & GE-F414). Kaveri engine development programme is continuing and dry variant of which will power Indian Unmanned Strike Air Vehicle (IUSAV).

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