HAL Releases a tender for the construction of GE F404 Engine Test bed Building

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)through its Facilities Management Division, has initiated a tender process aimed at the construction of a specialized building designated for testing the GE F404 engines. The Mentioned Structure is Engine Test Bed (ETB) Building, is slated to be constructed at the Air Force Station in Kanpur. The project timeline mandates a completion within a stringent 18-month period

The scope of work for this project is comprehensive, encompassing civil engineering tasks along with the integration of electrical systems necessary for the operational functionality of the test bed. The tender explicitly requires that the bidding agencies possess substantial prior experience in similar projects, ensuring that only those with proven expertise in handling complex construction and technical integration can participate.

The financial aspect of the tender has been detailed with the Construction's estimated cost pegged at 18.05 Crore Rupees. .

The deadline for submission of bids is set for 9 December 2024, providing a window for interested and eligible firms to prepare their proposals. This date serves as a critical juncture for HAL to move forward with the project without further delays, which are already a concern given the backdrop of the ongoing delays in the supply of GE F404 engines intended for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. These engines are a core component for the aircraft's operational capabilities, making the timely construction of the test facility even more imperative.

This tender's announcement occurs against the backdrop of delays in the supply chain for the GE F404 engines, which has been a point of contention and concern regarding the readiness of the LCA Tejas for full combat operations.