India has recently received the second GE-F404 engine from the United States for its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark 1A fighter jet programme. This marks step forward in the indigenous fighter jet’s production after delays caused by supply chain disruptions. The public sector company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to integrate these engines into the aircraft, with plans to receive more engines and accelerate deliveries to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Recent Developments in Engine Supply
HAL took delivery of the second GE-F404 engine in July 2025. The engines are crucial for the LCA Tejas Mk 1A. The first engine arrived in March 2025 after a delay of over a year caused by supply chain issues at GE Aerospace. HAL expects to receive 12 more engines by the end of the financial year. This supply will enable the production and delivery of fighter jets to the IAF.
Orders and Production Plans
The IAF has placed an order for 83 LCA Mk 1A aircraft. Additionally, the Defence Ministry is considering procuring 97 more jets, with approval at an advanced stage. HAL aims to produce 16 aircraft annually and deliver all jets by 2030. Twelve jets are planned to be rolled out by December 2025, with six already lined up for delivery.
Integration and Testing Process
Integrating the GE-F404 engine involves multiple steps. The fuselage is built first, followed by lobing, piping, and landing gear assembly. After engine installation, ground and high-speed runs are conducted to ensure performance and safety. The entire process takes about a month per aircraft.
Upgrades in Tejas Mk 1A
The Mk 1A version includes upgrades over the Mk 1. It features AESA radar, an advanced electronic warfare suite with jamming capabilities, and beyond visual range (BVR) combat capacity. The aircraft integrates Derby missiles and the indigenous ASTRA missile, which is currently undergoing testing for firing from the Tejas.
Strategic Importance for Indian Air Force
The timely induction of Tejas Mk 1A is vital for the IAF. Older fighter squadrons like the MiG-21 have been phased out. Early next decade, more ageing jets will retire. The Tejas Mk 1A will help maintain squadron strength and modernise the fleet. Delays in engine deliveries had raised concerns among IAF leadership, prompting diplomatic engagement with the US.
Defence Cooperation Between India and US
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth have held discussions to enhance defence cooperation. The Government of India has urged expedited deliveries of GE-F404 engines. The ₹5,375 crore contract for 99 engines placed by HAL in 2021 reflects deepening ties in defence manufacturing and technology sharing.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Engine supply delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and global supply chain disruptions impacted the original delivery schedule. HAL’s capacity to maintain production depends on timely engine deliveries. The programme’s success is critical to India’s goal of self-reliance in defence and modernising its air combat capabilities.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss in the light of India-US defence cooperation, how strategic partnerships influence indigenous defence production capabilities.
- Analyse the challenges faced by India in achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing with suitable examples from the Light Combat Aircraft programme.
- Examine the role of modern fighter jets like LCA Tejas Mk 1A in maintaining air force squadron strength and national security.
- With suitable examples, discuss the impact of global supply chain disruptions on the defence sector and measures to mitigate such risks.
