HAL Advances LCA Tejas Mk-1A Program with Fourth GE-F404-IN20 Engine Delivery
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has taken delivery of the fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine from GE Aerospace, a major player in the US aerospace sector, for its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1A program. This delivery is a significant step in fulfilling the Indian Air Force's (IAF) urgent demand for domestically produced fighter jets.
The third engine was delivered to HAL on September 11, and the company is set to receive a total of 12 engines by the end of the current fiscal year. These engines are intended to power the initial batch of 83 LCA Mk-1A aircraft, which the IAF has already ordered. Additionally, there is an advanced proposal under consideration for 97 more aircraft.
In 2021, India signed a contract worth $716 million with GE for 99 F404-IN20 engines. However, global supply chain disruptions, including complications with a South Korean component supplier, have caused delays, extending the delivery timeline to March 2025.
Despite these challenges, HAL remains optimistic about achieving its production goals. The IAF's plans include the induction of a total of 352 Tejas aircraft, encompassing both the Mk-1A and upcoming Mk-2 variants. By the fiscal year 2026–27, the full-scale production is expected to reach 30 aircraft annually, with contributions from both public and private sector partners.
The GE-F404-IN20 engine is recognized for its high thrust-to-weight ratio and reliability, attributes that will significantly boost the combat capabilities of the Tejas Mk-1A. This development is a crucial component of India's strategy to achieve self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
