GE Aerospace Delivers Fifth Engine to HAL, Advancing TEJAS MK-1A Fighter Jet Production
GE Aerospace has successfully delivered the fifth F404-IN20 engine to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), marking a notable advancement in the production of TEJAS MK-1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This handover falls under the 2021 agreement for 99 engines and signifies consistent progress in stabilizing the supply chain, which previously faced delays.
The F404-IN20 engines are integral to the enhanced Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) TEJAS MK-1A. This version of the jet boasts advanced avionics, improved radar systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and enhanced reliability compared to the earlier TEJAS MK-1 variant.
HAL has indicated that earlier supply disruptions have diminished, allowing for reliable deliveries. GE is committed to providing 12 engines by the conclusion of fiscal year 2025. The first engine from this contract was delivered in March 2025, with subsequent deliveries occurring in September and October, culminating in this recent development.
The IAF has already ordered 83 TEJAS MK-1A aircraft, with further proposals for 97 additional jets under advanced consideration. HAL is planning to increase its production rate to 30 aircraft annually by the years 2026–27, facilitated by expanded public-private partnerships.
In November 2025, HAL entered a landmark agreement with GE Aerospace, valued at over $1 billion, for the supply of 113 additional F404-IN20 engines and support packages. These engines are intended to power the subsequent 97 TEJAS MK-1A fighters, with deliveries slated from 2027 to 2032. This agreement highlights the strengthening Indo-US defense cooperation and bolsters India’s objective to expand its indigenous fighter fleet to 352 TEJAS variants.
The engines provided are equipped with performance enhancements tailored to meet Indian requirements, offering increased thrust, durability, and multirole mission capabilities. HAL Chairman DK Sunil emphasized that the stabilization of international supply chains has paved the way for the timely rollout of the MK-1A, with full-scale manufacturing already in progress.
The ongoing collaboration between HAL and GE Aerospace, which spans more than four decades, aligns with India’s ambition for self-reliance in aerospace manufacturing and enhances operational readiness in response to evolving regional security challenges.
