By Staff Correspondent
In a significant development for defence aviation, GE Aerospace has signed a five-year Performance-Based Logistics (PBL) contract with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to provide sustainment solutions for the T700-GE-701D engines that power the IAF’s fleet of AH-64E-I Apache helicopters. This collaboration marks a milestone in the ongoing partnership between GE Aerospace and the Indian Air Force, emphasizing the importance of reliable maintenance and operational readiness for critical defence platforms.
Under the terms of the agreement, GE Aerospace will oversee the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) of the T700 engines, in addition to supplying flight line parts to ensure consistent engine availability. The PBL solution is designed to optimize sustainment operations, reduce turnaround times, and enhance the operational efficiency of the Apache helicopter fleet. This approach reflects a shift toward more integrated and performance-focused logistics, ensuring that the IAF’s Apache helicopters remain mission-ready and operationally effective.
Youngje Kim, Vice President and General Manager of Asia Pacific, Defense & Systems for GE Aerospace, highlighted the significance of this contract, stating, “We are honoured to continue our partnership with the Indian Air Force through this PBL contract, which underscores our commitment to deliver reliable and innovative sustainment solutions for critical defence platforms.” This statement underscores GE Aerospace’s dedication to supporting the IAF’s mission readiness by maintaining the T700 engines at peak performance levels.
The T700/CT7 family of engines, which power both military and civilian aircraft, has a proven track record of reliability and durability. With over 25,000 engines delivered and approximately 130 million flight hours accumulated, these engines have demonstrated exceptional performance in the most challenging environments, including combat zones in Iraq and Afghanistan. The robust design and adaptability of the T700 engines make them a cornerstone of modern aviation, trusted by over 130 customers across more than 50 countries.
This partnership also reflects the broader capabilities and expertise of GE Aerospace, a global leader in aerospace propulsion, services, and systems. With an installed base of approximately 45,000 commercial and 25,000 military aircraft engines, GE Aerospace has established itself as a pioneer in aviation technology. The company’s global workforce of 53,000 employees continues to build on a century of innovation, ensuring that GE Aerospace remains at the forefront of advancements in aviation.
For the Indian Air Force, this agreement represents a critical step in maintaining the operational readiness of its Apache fleet, a vital asset in its defence arsenal. The AH-64E-I Apache helicopter is renowned for its advanced combat capabilities, and the sustainment of its T700 engines is essential for ensuring its effectiveness in a variety of missions. By partnering with GE Aerospace, the IAF is not only securing the reliability of its fleet but also strengthening its overall defence capabilities.
The PBL contract between GE Aerospace and the Indian Air Force signifies a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing the sustainment and performance of the IAF’s Apache helicopters. This partnership highlights the importance of innovative logistics solutions in modern defence operations and reaffirms GE Aerospace’s commitment to supporting the operational needs of its global partners. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, such collaborations will play a crucial role in ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of defence forces worldwide.
