GE Aerospace has a four-decade-long partnership with the Indian Air Force. Recently, they inked an agreement to establish an in-country depot facility for F404-IN20 engines. This facility will enhance the repair and overhaul infrastructure for the IAF’s Light Combat Aircraft Tejas fleet. The Indian Air Force will own, operate, and maintain this new facility.
In another development, Pune airport was temporarily closed due to a hard landing incident involving one of its aircraft. The aircraft experienced an undercarriage failure upon landing. Officials estimate it will take 4-5 hours to move the aircraft and restore the runway.
The Indian Air Force Chief undertook a familiarisation flight in a Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter aircraft at Nellis Air Force Base. The F-15EX is an advanced multirole fighter developed by Boeing. It can carry a maximum payload of 29,500 pounds (13,381 kilograms) and has a top speed of Mach 2.5.
The service ceiling of the F-15EX is 50,000 feet, and it boasts a service life of 20,000 hours. The U.S. Air Force emphasized the importance of its defense partnership with India during a meeting with the Indian Air Chief. Observers note that these developments signify growing military cooperation between the two nations.
