Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a contract with Safran Aircraft Engines for the production of turbine forged parts used in LEAP engines. The agreement, announced at the Aero India trade show in Bengaluru, builds on an existing partnership between the two companies.
The contract follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in October 2023 to expand industrial cooperation in commercial engine manufacturing under India's "Make in India" initiative. The initiative aims to support India's aerospace sector and contribute to the increasing production of LEAP engines, which power single-aisle commercial aircraft.
HAL will supply critical nickel ring forgings for the LEAP engines. The two companies previously established the Safran HAL Aircraft Engines joint venture in Bengaluru in 2022, focused on manufacturing components for both the LEAP and M88 engines. Safran is also expanding its aerospace operations in India by setting up new facilities and working with Indian industry partners.
Safran Aircraft Engines currently operates five production sites in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Goa. A sixth site, dedicated to maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) for LEAP engines, is set to open in Hyderabad in 2025. India is one of the largest markets for CFM engines, with 75% of the country's commercial aircraft fleet using them. Of the 500 aircraft operated by Indian airlines with CFM engines, over 370 use LEAP engines, with more than 2,000 additional LEAP engines on order.
Safran also plans to expand its collaboration with India in the defence sector, particularly on the M88 engine program.
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