The delivery of GE Aerospace’s F404-IN20 engines remains an important factor in the production of India’s Tejas Mk1A fighters. GE has confirmed that three engines were shipped to HAL in August as it works to increase output from its restarted F404 production line. The company is expected to supply 20 engines by the end of 2026 and another 10 before the end of March 2027. Reports indicate that 10 engines have been shipped so far. HAL has already manufactured about 30 Mk1A airframes and nearly 12 trainer aircraft, several of which have completed flight testing but require engines and final approvals before being handed over to the IAF. GE intends to increase annual production to approximately 30 engines from FY2027. The Tejas Mk1A uses the F404-GE-IN20, an afterburning turbofan capable of producing around 84 kN of thrust. Following the original 83-aircraft order, GE encountered difficulties in restoring the F404 supply chain after production and supplier arrangements were disrupted in the post-pandemic period. The company subsequently established a dedicated production line and reorganised its supplier network. The situation became more significant when the IAF added another 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft to its order book. Because delays in engine deliveries have affected the aircraft production timeline, GE has incurred financial penalties and faces pressure to maintain its revised delivery schedule. A sustained improvement in engine availability would allow HAL to accelerate aircraft completion and support India’s broader plans for expanding its indigenous fighter fleet.
