The Indian Air Force (IAF) has signed an agreement with US-based GE Aerospace to establish a domestic engine depot for the F404-IN20 engines that power the Tejas fighter jet. This facility, operated by the IAF, will significantly change engine maintenance practices by allowing most servicing work to be conducted within India, rather than sending engines abroad for repairs. This shift is expected to reduce turnaround times and improve aircraft availability, directly enhancing operational readiness. The depot will serve as a dedicated maintenance and repair center, with IAF personnel managing daily operations and GE engineers providing technical support and system upgrades as necessary. This partnership builds on decades of collaboration between India and GE Aerospace, which has supplied engines and technical systems for various Indian defense platforms, including helicopters and naval vessels. By establishing this domestic capability, India aims to bolster its defense infrastructure and reduce reliance on foreign maintenance services, thereby strengthening its operational capabilities in the aviation sector.