India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to locally manufacture the General Electric (GE) F414 engine under an 80% Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreement, marking a significant advancement in India’s aerospace self-reliance. The $1.5 billion deal includes the supply of 99 engines for the Tejas Mk2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and establishes HAL as a regional maintenance hub. However, the retention of the Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) software by GE raises concerns about India’s long-term autonomy in engine upgrades and maintenance, potentially complicating operations amid geopolitical tensions. Despite this limitation, the deal significantly enhances India’s indigenous capabilities and supports its aim of developing advanced military platforms.