Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) initiated a project for design and development of an aero-engine in 1989 for requirements of combat aircraft. Since then, a considerable progress has been made in development of aero-engine.
However, full objectives have not been achieved, like desired thrust. Hence, GE-F404 engine has been selected as power plant for Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-I.
LCA Mk-II requires a higher thrust class engine, therefore, GE-F414 Engine has been chosen as power plant for LCA Mk-II. Both engines are imported from M/s General Electric, USA.
LCA Programme (Mk-I & Mk-II) has already gone ahead with alternate engine (GE-F404 & GE-F414). Kaveri engine development programme is continuing and dry variant of which will power Indian Unmanned Strike Air Vehicle (IUSAV).
This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Ambeth Rajan in Rajya Sabha today.
