Industrial conglomerates GE and the Tata Group have entered into a pact to manufacture “CFM International LEAP” engine components in India, for the global supply chain, a company statement said on Thursday.

According to the statement, the two companies also evinced their intention to jointly pursue military engine and aircraft system opportunities for the India market.

“We look forward to working with GE to build more expertise and strengthen India’s defence manufacturing capabilities,” said N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Sons.

“Tata group’s partnership with GE will help drive synergies in defence manufacturing and focus on innovation to support our armed forces,” he added.

The strategic partnership envisages GE Aviation and Tata Sons’ subsidiary, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), to join forces for “manufacturing, assembling, integration and testing of aircraft components”.

Accordingly, a new Centre of Excellence will be established to help develop a robust ecosystem for aircraft engine manufacturing in India and build related capabilities.

“Tata Group is a leader in the Indian defence and aerospace sector, and we look forward to working together to meet the growing demand for LEAP engines. Our collaboration in building innovative technologies will support the ‘Make in India’ vision of the Indian government,” said John L. Flannery, Chairman and CEO of GE.

The “LEAP” is one of the world’s leading jet engines known for its technological superiority, efficient fuel consumption and performance for powering single-aisle commercial jets. It is a product of CFM International, a 50/50 joint company of GE and Safran Aircraft Engines.

Traditionally, GE military engines have had a strong history in India. The company currently provides jet engines and marine gas turbines for many Indian military applications including the Light Combat Aircraft-Tejas Mk 1, Indian Navy P-8I aircraft and the P-17 Shivalik class frigates. Several military programmes under development that include the Light Combat Aircraft-Tejas Mk 2, P-17A & P-71 ships, and the AH-64 attack helicopters will be powered by GE engines.

On the other hand, TASL is focused on providing integrated solutions for aerospace, defence and homeland security.

Telangana Industry Minister K. T. Rama Rao, who had called on GE Chairman and CEO in Delhi on Wednesday, said he was excited over the announcement.

He said Hyderabad had attracted another major investment in defence and aerospace and hoped that this would give further boost to the sector.