As India celebrates its 92nd Indian Air Force Day, Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, reaffirms its deep-rooted commitment to bolstering the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) operational prowess. With nearly a century of expertise in aircraft propulsion and a history of supporting India’s aerospace ambitions for almost 70 years, the company continues to power the IAF’s most critical platforms. Ashmita Sethi, President and Country Head of Pratt & Whitney India, in an exclusive conversation with Financial Express Online stated: “We are proud to be the propulsion partner for the IAF’s modern transport platforms, enabling key strategic airlift operations.”

A Vital Role in India’s Strategic Airlift Operations

Pratt & Whitney’s relationship with the IAF has evolved significantly, starting in 2014 with the delivery of F117-powered Boeing C-17 Globemaster IIIs, which are now essential for India’s strategic airlift capabilities. These aircraft play a crucial role in national security and humanitarian missions, showcasing the strength of this partnership. Sethi highlighted the importance of the IAF’s newest acquisition, the Airbus C-295, which is powered by Pratt & Whitney PW127G engines. “The PW127G engine is renowned for its efficiency, reliability, and dependability—qualities that are critical to supporting the IAF’s growing transport fleet,” she noted.

RTX’s Broader Contributions to India’s Armed Forces

The partnership between RTX and India extends far beyond Pratt & Whitney. Collins Aerospace, another RTX business, has a rich history of supporting the IAF through cutting-edge products for various platforms, including the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1 and other vital platforms like the C-17, C-130J, and P-8I. Sethi underscored, “Collins Aerospace has also partnered with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to sustain key legacy platforms such as the Jaguars and Hawks, ensuring their operational readiness for decades to come.”

Supporting India’s Future Defence Platforms

Looking ahead, RTX is poised to support India’s indigenization efforts, particularly in the development of next-generation fighters and transport aircraft. Sethi pointed out that RTX’s V2500-E5 engine, powering Embraer’s C-390 Millennium—a contender for India’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA)—delivers reliable performance for both military and humanitarian missions. “The V2500 enables the C-390 to perform essential tasks like troop transport, aerial refuelling, and disaster relief, making it an ideal fit for India’s future transport needs,” Sethi explained.

Commitment to India’s Defence and Aerospace Ecosystem

RTX’s investment in India is not just limited to cutting-edge technology—it is also focused on building a robust ecosystem. Sethi revealed that RTX plans to increase its sourcing from India to nearly $150 million annually by 2030. “We are committed to strengthening India’s aerospace supply chain. Collins Aerospace, one of the largest exporters of aerospace products from India, is expanding its manufacturing capabilities, particularly in aerostructures, interiors, and avionics,” she said.

RTX’s strategic investments are further complemented by the company’s focus on developing local talent. Pratt & Whitney has already invested over US$40 million in its Centers of Excellence in India, while Collins Aerospace has allocated $200 million towards expanding its R&D and production facilities, with Bengaluru serving as a critical hub for innovation across all six of its business portfolios.

As India charts its path toward self-reliance in defence, RTX, through Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace, remains a steadfast partner, helping the IAF achieve its ambitious modernization goals.