Safran Aircraft Engines has signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the production of turbine forged parts for LEAP engines. The agreement was formalized at the Aero India trade show in Bengaluru.
The contract follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in October 2023, which aimed to expand industrial cooperation in commercial engine parts manufacturing under India’s “Make in India” initiative. The agreement is intended to support the growth of India’s aerospace sector and contribute to the increasing production of LEAP engines used in single-aisle commercial aircraft.
Safran and HAL previously established the Safran HAL Aircraft Engines joint venture in 2022, located in Bengaluru, to manufacture components for the LEAP engine as well as the M88 engine used in Rafale fighter jets. In addition to this partnership, Safran Aircraft Engines is expanding its aerospace operations in India by establishing new facilities and collaborating with Indian industry partners.
HAL Chairman & Managing Director D K Sunil stated that the partnership has developed over the years through projects such as the joint development of the Shakti helicopter engine and the co-development of the IMRH engine. The company will now supply critical nickel ring forgings for LEAP engines.
Safran Aircraft Engines has an existing presence in India with five production sites in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Goa. A sixth facility, focused on maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) for LEAP engines, is expected to open in Hyderabad in 2025. India represents the third-largest market for CFM engines, with 75% of the country’s commercial fleet using CFM engines. Of the 500 aircraft operated by seven Indian airlines with CFM engines, over 370 are LEAP-powered, with more than 2,000 additional LEAP engines on order for Indian carriers.
The company also plans to expand its collaboration with India in the defence sector, particularly on the M88 engine program.
