Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has obtained the seventh GE F404-IN20 engine from GE Aerospace for the Tejas Mk-1A fighter jet being manufactured for the Indian Air Force. This delivery, though delayed, is a significant relief as it will expedite the assembly of Tejas Mk-1A fighters. The F404-IN20 engine is crucial for both the Tejas Mk-1 and Mk-1A variants.
The delay in engine deliveries has been a major hindrance to HAL’s production schedule and the Indian Air Force’s modernization plans. The IAF has placed an order for 83 Tejas Mk-1A fighters under a contract worth Rs 48,000 crore, with plans to expand the fleet to 180 fighters. GE Aerospace has committed to ramping up production to supply 24-26 F404 engines annually starting from 2026 to support this program.
HAL has enhanced its manufacturing capacity by setting up multiple assembly lines in Bengaluru and Nashik to accelerate aircraft production. If engine deliveries remain on track, HAL is projected to start delivering the initial batch of Tejas Mk-1A fighters by late 2026. The sixth engine previously delivered by GE Aerospace has been cleared for operational use after rectifying a technical issue detected during testing.
India has also formally requested France for the procurement of 114 Dassault Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force, marking a significant move to bolster the IAF’s squadron strength, which has been declining.
