HAL Receives Key US Engines, Paving Way for Tejas Fighter Production

The production of India's indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark-1A is set to accelerate, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) receiving another critical GE-F404 engine from US-based GE Aerospace. The delivery marks a significant step in streamlining the supply chain for the advanced fighter jet program, with a major follow-on contract for additional engines expected to be finalized soon.

Engine Deliveries Accelerate Program

GE Aerospace on Tuesday handed over the fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine to HAL, a delivery that follows the third engine which arrived on September 11. These powerplants are essential for the production of the advanced LCA Mark-1A jets, which are slated for induction into the Indian Air Force in the near future. HAL has stated that the improvement in the engine supply chain is a crucial development that will pave the way for the timely delivery of the new aircraft.

Billion-Dollar Deal on the Horizon

This latest delivery comes as HAL prepares to sign a massive follow-on contract with GE Aerospace for an additional 113 engines. The deal, valued at approximately $1 billion, is in the final stages of negotiation and is expected to be officially inked in October 2025. This new order will supplement a previous contract for 99 engines, which were procured for the initial batch of 83 Tejas jets ordered by the Indian Air Force. The finalization of this billion-dollar agreement will secure the engine supply for the entire LCA Mark-1A production run, providing a major boost to India's self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Tags: IAF