Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has finalized a significant agreement with U.S.-based GE Aerospace for the supply of 113 F404-GE-IN20 jet engines to support the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme. Despite recent trade tensions between India and the United States—triggered by a 50% tariff on Indian exports imposed by the Trump administration—the two sides successfully concluded this major defence deal.
According to officials, deliveries of the engines will commence in 2027 and are scheduled for completion by 2032. The total contract value is estimated at around USD 1 billion (approximately ₹8,870 crore).
HAL confirmed that the engines and associated support packages are being procured for the production of 97 LCA Mk-1A aircraft, following a ₹62,370 crore contract signed in September between HAL and the Ministry of Defence for these fighter jets.
The Tejas Mk-1A is a single-engine, multi-role fighter designed for air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and precision strike operations in challenging combat environments. HAL has previously used the same GE F404-IN20 engines in other batches of Tejas aircraft.
Earlier, in February 2021, the Defence Ministry had placed an order worth ₹48,000 crore with HAL for 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets. However, progress on deliveries has been delayed due to GE Aerospace’s missed engine supply deadlines.
The Indian Air Force, currently operating 31 fighter squadrons—well below the sanctioned strength of 42—is depending on the Tejas induction programme to bridge this capability gap and enhance its operational readiness. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is India’s premier aerospace and defense company, playing a pivotal role in the nation’s aviation and space sectors. Established in 1940, HAL designs, develops, manufactures, and maintains a wide range of aircraft, helicopters, engines, and avionics systems for both military and civil applications.
Headquartered in Bengaluru, HAL has been instrumental in advancing India’s self-reliance in aerospace technology through projects like the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, and various collaborations with global aerospace leaders. The company’s contributions extend beyond defense, as it is now expanding into the production of passenger aircraft, marking a new chapter in India’s journey toward becoming a global aviation hub. HAL continues to embody the spirit of innovation and Aatmanirbhar Bharat by strengthening indigenous capabilities and fostering growth in the nation’s aerospace ecosystem.
