The defense ministry signed a massive contract worth over Rs 26,000 crore with Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) for the acquisition of 240 aero-engines to power the Sukhoi-30MKI planes, which would maintain the operational capabilities of the IAF's combat fleet of 259 such Russian-origin fighters.

HAL's Koraput division will construct the 240 AL-31FP aeroengines, with the military PSU obtaining certain components from Russia. According to a MoD official, HAL "would enhance the indigenization content of the aero-engines to 63% by the end of the delivery timeframe to achieve an average of over 54%" under the deal, which was signed in the presence of IAF commander Air commander Marshal V R Chaudhari and defense secretary Giridhar Aramane.

"This would also assist in boosting the indigenous content of aircraft engine maintenance and overhaul activities. Around 30 aero-engines will be provided each year, with all 240 delivered over the following eight years," he added. The PM-led cabinet committee on security approved the contract on September 2, which is critical given that the IAF only has 30 fighter squadrons whereas at least 42 are required to combat the twin threat from China and Pakistan, as reported earlier.

The IAF's combat fleet is built up of 259 twin-engine Sukhois, most of which are made by HAL under license from Russia for more than $12 billion. Another 12 new Sukhois, together with accompanying equipment, are currently being bought for around Rs 11,500 crore to replace those that have crashed throughout the years.

In February, the CCS approved replacement engines for the IAF's fleet of around 60 MiG-29 aircraft for Rs 5,300 crore, which would be constructed by HAL with Russian participation. India's inability to develop fighter engines with the required thrust-to-weight ratio on its own has long been a big issue. To reduce costs and increase indigenous content, the IAF is now purchasing aero engines in bulk rather than in small batches. Engines must be changed at least twice or three times throughout a fighter's operational life.