It's GE F-414 for LCA Mk-II; EJ-200 loses the race in photo finish, says PNC went against the 'most-capable engine'

GE F-414 has been selected for Tejas Mk-II leaving behind EJ-200. This is contrary to media reports. Stay tuned for more.
 Below is a one-para  DRDO release issued at 1:45 pm.

DRDO Release: The Price Negotiating Committee for the Alternate Engine for LCA Mk-2 has finalised the Comparative Statement of Tenders.  The committee had its representations from Ministry of Defence, Defence Finance, ADA, DRDO, HAL, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy.   After evaluation and acceptance of the Technical offer provided by both Eurojet and GE Aviation, the commercial quotes were compared in detail and GE Aviation was declared as the lowest bidder.  Further price negotiations and contract finalization will follow.

(Eurojet's statement below. Issued at 4.30 pm)

We respect the decision taken by the Price Negotiating Committee. However, we regret that the Committee has decided against the most capable & latest generation engine on offer for the LCA-Tejas. Together with our consortium partner companies and their respective governments we will carefully study the decision and its implications. We expect further details from Indian authorities and more information about the process leading to the announced selection. This decision does not affect our strong commitment to India. We will continue to explore true and trusted partnerships here which will support the development of a strong Indian aerospace and defence industry.

(Detailed story tonite on AW/India)

Powering LCA Mk-2: GE F-414 vs EJ-200; talks shift to Delhi; decision soon

After months of extended analysis, comparison studies, and calculations, the hunt for a suitable engine for Tejas Mk-II seems to have reached the final phase. The contenders -- GE F-414 and EJ-200 -- are equally confident that they would make it to India's Tejas.

MoD sources confirm that the negotiations have now shifted to Delhi (from Bangalore) and there are couple of issues need to be sorted out. All top officials associated with the project have now reached Delhi on Sunday night and the next two days might be crucial. The Tejas is currently undergoing sea-trials in Goa.

A section of Indian media have been reporting for the last one month that EJ-200 is/will be the likely choice, but MoD sources refuse to say anything official yet. "We are continuing the talks from today," an official said.

Stay tuned for the latest.