New Delhi, India: In a significant milestone for India’s indigenous fighter aircraft program, General Electric Aerospace (GE Aerospace) on Friday delivered the fifth F404-IN20 jet engine to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A project. The delivery is part of a 2021 order, with HAL and GE Aerospace working closely to ensure timely production and supply.
Powering India’s Indigenous Fighter Jets
The F404-IN20 engine provides the critical thrust for HAL’s Tejas Mk1A, India’s indigenously developed light combat aircraft. The fourth engine under this order was delivered in October 2025. HAL has signed a major procurement deal for 113 F404-IN20 engines, aimed at completing the production of 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft under the program.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) finalized the contract for these 97 aircraft in September 2025, with deliveries scheduled between 2027 and 2032.
Boosting Production Capacity and Technological Capability
HAL also revealed that this year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the third production line for Tejas Mk1A and the second production line for HTT-40 trainer aircraft at HAL’s Nashik facility. Meanwhile, GE Aerospace announced a $14 million investment to expand its Pune plant, marking its second significant capital infusion after $30 million last year.
The investment aims to enhance production capacity, integrate advanced technologies and automation, and strengthen the manufacture of high-end engine components—further consolidating India’s self-reliance in defense aviation.
This development comes at a strategic moment, coinciding with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, highlighting India’s growing capabilities in indigenous fighter aircraft and aerospace technology, a move that strengthens national defense and sends a strong message in the regional security landscape.
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