The American corporation GE Aerospace delivered another three F404-IN20 model engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in August 2026. These engines are intended for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk1A program, and the company itself confirmed this information. With this new batch, the total number of engines delivered to HAL has reached ten.
Previously, the seventh engine was received in July. The sixth engine encountered a minor technical issue, which GE managed to resolve, after which HAL granted permission for its use. GE expressed pride in its partnership with HAL and the Indian Air Force, emphasizing its contribution to powering domestic fighters.
The Tejas Mk1A project had long lagged due to insufficient engine supplies. The Ministry of Defence signed a contract with HAL in February 2021 worth 48,000 crore rupees, which stipulates the delivery of 83 aircraft, including 73 fighters and 10 trainers. Initially, deliveries were planned to be completed over eight years, with the first three aircraft delivered in the third year, followed by 16 aircraft annually for five years.
However, production slowdown occurred due to slow engine delivery. Now, thanks to the arrival of new engines, the situation has improved. HAL reported that additional engine deliveries are expected in the coming months. The goal is to receive a total of 22 engines by December to accelerate production and begin supplying the Air Force.
GE Aerospace secured a contract to supply a total of 99 F404-IN20 engines for the initial order. This engine is the primary power source for the single-engine fighter and represents the most critical element of the production schedule. Accelerating and regularizing engine deliveries will allow HAL to increase production rates.
Continuous engine delivery is necessary to meet the Air Force's needs. If the supply chain remains stable, the project may return to its planned timeline. Tejas Mk1A is an important indigenous combat aircraft development program in India. The engine shortage has long been an obstacle, and the new batch from GE is a positive step in overcoming this barrier. HAL can now focus on increasing production, which will help strengthen the Indian Air Force squadrons. Nevertheless, further increases in supply will be required to meet the original deadlines.