HAL Receives Seventh GE F404 Engine, Boosting Tejas Mk-1A Production Momentum

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has received the seventh GE F404-IN20 engine for the Tejas Mk-1A programme, marking another important milestone in the production of India’s indigenous light combat aircraft. The latest engine has successfully completed the required acceptance and flight clearance process before being handed over, enabling HAL to continue integrating powerplants into aircraft that have been waiting for engines.

The arrival of the seventh engine comes at a crucial time for the Tejas Mk-1A programme, which has faced repeated production delays due to the slow delivery of engines from GE Aerospace. Although HAL continued manufacturing aircraft structures and carrying out system integration, the shortage of engines prevented several aircraft from moving into the final stages of assembly, testing and delivery. With another engine now available, the company is expected to gradually clear the production backlog and maintain a more consistent assembly schedule.

According to reports, engine deliveries have begun improving after a prolonged period of supply-chain disruptions that affected GE Aerospace’s manufacturing operations. The company has been working to increase production and deliver engines at a faster pace to support HAL’s manufacturing targets. The seventh engine is another indication that the supply situation is stabilising, providing greater confidence for the Tejas Mk-1A production line.

The Tejas Mk-1A is one of the Indian Air Force’s most important fighter induction programmes and forms a key part of India’s efforts to modernise its combat fleet. The aircraft is expected to replace ageing MiG-21 fighters while strengthening the country’s indigenous aerospace manufacturing capabilities. HAL is responsible for manufacturing and delivering the aircraft, while a growing network of Indian private-sector companies is contributing major airframe components and sub-systems to support higher production rates.

The Indian Air Force has placed an order for 83 Tejas Mk-1A fighters, followed by another contract for 97 additional aircraft, taking the total number of Mk-1A jets on order to 180. These aircraft will play a significant role in enhancing the IAF’s operational capability over the coming years and reducing dependence on imported combat platforms.

With the seventh GE F404 engine now delivered, HAL is expected to continue aircraft integration, ground checks and flight-testing activities while preparing additional Tejas Mk-1A fighters for delivery. If engine supplies continue to improve in line with the revised schedule, the programme could witness a noticeable increase in production during the coming months, helping the Indian Air Force induct new indigenous fighter aircraft at a faster pace.

The steady flow of engines is considered one of the most critical factors for the success of the Tejas Mk-1A programme. As deliveries become more regular, HAL will be better positioned to meet its production commitments and support India’s long-term objective of building a stronger, self-reliant defence aerospace industry under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.