HAL Boosts Tejas Mk1A Fleet with GE Engine Deal
India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A programme has received a major push as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) signed an agreement with American engine manufacturer General Electric (GE) to supply 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines. These engines will power the second batch of 97 Tejas Mk1A jets already ordered by the Indian Air Force. Deliveries of the engines are planned between 2027 and 2032, along with a complete support package.
The first order for 83 Mk1A aircraft, valued at ₹36,400 crore and signed in February 2021, was initially expected to be completed by February 2028. However, HAL missed the 2024 delivery start deadline due to delays in engine supply from GE under an earlier agreement. Although around 10 aircraft have been assembled, many are currently fitted with reserve engines as a temporary measure.
With GE recently handing over the fourth engine on September 30 and the fifth expected this month, HAL is confident that the supply chain will now stabilise. The move is seen as crucial for keeping production on schedule and ensuring a smooth transition toward future upgrades, including the more advanced Tejas Mark 2.
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