In a major boost to India’s indigenous fighter jet program, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a $1 billion agreement with General Electric (GE) for the supply of 113 F404-GE-IN20 jet engines. These engines will power the next batch of Tejas Mk-1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), marking a milestone in India–US defence cooperation.
This development comes at a sensitive time when India–US relations are stabilizing after a few months of trade tensions and tariff issues.
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Key Highlights
- Deal Value: $1 Billion
- Engines Ordered: 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines
- Manufacturer: General Electric (GE), USA
- Indian Partner: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
- Delivery Schedule: 2027 – 2032
- Aircraft Supported: 97 Tejas Mk-1A fighters
- Previous Deal: 99 engines ordered in 2021 worth $716 million
- Purpose: Replace aging MiG-21 jets in IAF fleet
The Strategic Importance
The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates 31 fighter squadrons, far short of the authorized strength of 42 squadrons — the lowest level in nearly six decades. The Tejas Mk-1A program is seen as a critical lifeline to rebuild India’s fighter strength amidst rising threats from China and Pakistan.
China operates about 66 squadrons, while Pakistan maintains around 25, many of which are equipped with advanced Chinese JF-17 fighters.
HAL’s Tejas Mk-1A jets will not only fill this critical gap but also reduce India’s reliance on foreign aircraft.
“We are eagerly waiting for the LCA Mk1A — it’s like we are waiting with hungry mouths for food,”
said Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, reflecting the urgency within the IAF to induct new fighters.
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Overcoming Delays and Challenges
The Tejas program has faced multiple setbacks. The earlier batch of 99 engines ordered in 2021 saw delivery delays — only four engines have arrived so far. GE attributed these to COVID-19 supply chain disruptions, which also delayed Tejas deliveries by more than a year.
Originally, HAL planned to begin deliveries in March 2024, but now expects the first batch to reach the Air Force by early 2026.
HAL officials said that with the new deal, they expect to receive two engines per month, enough to produce 24 Tejas aircraft annually.
Once deliveries begin, the total number of F404 engines supplied to India will reach 212, powering 180 Tejas Mk-1A fighters — making it the largest indigenous fighter fleet in IAF history.
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India–US Relations: A Strategic Reset
The deal also symbolizes a warming of ties between New Delhi and Washington. After a period of friction caused by U.S. tariffs on Indian goods and India’s purchase of Russian oil, the GE-HAL contract reflects mutual trust and defence cooperation.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that his talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi were “going great” and that “India has largely stopped buying from Russia.” Trump even hinted at a possible visit to India next year, calling Modi “a great man and a friend.”
This deal could pave the way for future joint production of advanced engines like the GE F414 for the upcoming Tejas Mk-2 and AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) programs.
What’s Next for India’s Air Power
With this contract, HAL is confident of maintaining a steady production pace for the Tejas Mk-1A and ensuring timely aircraft deliveries to the IAF. The program also supports India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) vision, focusing on domestic manufacturing and reduced dependence on imports.
If executed smoothly, the Tejas Mk-1A will not only replace MiG-21s but also serve as a backbone of India’s air defence for the next two decades.
Conclusion
The $1 billion HAL-GE deal is more than just a defence contract — it represents India’s technological confidence, strategic partnerships, and commitment to self-reliance. As deliveries roll out from 2027, the Tejas Mk-1A powered by GE engines will play a central role in modernizing India’s Air Force and strengthening Indo–US ties.
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