India is poised to finalize a crucial defense agreement with the United States regarding the Transfer of Technology (ToT) for General Electric’s F414 engines, with a target completion date of March 2026. The deal, valued at approximately USD 1.5 billion, will enable Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to absorb 80 percent of critical manufacturing technologies, enhancing India’s indigenous aerospace capabilities and aligning with the Tejas Mk2 program and future fighter aircraft. The first “Made-in-India” F414 engine is anticipated by mid-2029, while HAL plans to manufacture eight Limited Series Production Tejas Mk2 aircraft between 2030 and 2032, allowing the Indian Air Force to train pilots and integrate indigenous systems ahead of full-scale production. This strategic shift aims to transition India from a defense importer to a co-developer of advanced fighter propulsion systems.