HAL & GE Ink $1 Billion Deal to Power LCA Tejas Mk 1A Jets

In a significant boost to India’s defence manufacturing programme, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a $1 billion agreement with General Electric (GE) for the supply of 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines. These engines will power 97 additional LCA Tejas Mk 1A fighter jets, a part of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) expanding indigenous combat fleet. The deal marks a critical step in ensuring the smooth execution of the Tejas Mk 1A programme and strengthening the country’s self-reliance in defence production.

Deal Details: 113 Engines for 97 Tejas Mk 1As

Key Highlights of the Agreement

HAL confirmed the deal through a social media post, highlighting that the engines will support delivery and integration of the new Tejas fleet in the coming years.

• Total Value: Over $1 billion
• Engines Ordered: 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines
• Programme Supported: 97 LCA Tejas Mk 1A aircraft
• Supplier: General Electric (GE)
• Buyer: HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited)

Background: The LCA Tejas Mk 1A Programme

The LCA Tejas Mk 1A is an upgraded version of India’s first indigenously developed light combat aircraft, featuring,

• Advanced avionics and radar systems
• Improved weapon integration capabilities
• Reduced maintenance and enhanced operational performance

Order Timeline

• Initial Order (2021): 83 LCA Mk 1As, worth ₹48,000 crore
• Additional Order (2025): 97 LCA Mk 1As signed in September
• Total Aircraft Ordered: 180 units

Despite the first order being signed in 2021, HAL is yet to begin deliveries. So far, 10 aircraft have been constructed, and only 4 F404 engines have been received from GE. Deliveries will commence once final certification, including weapon firing tests, is complete.

Significance of the F404-GE-IN20 Engine

The F404-GE-IN20 is a proven, reliable engine, previously used in various international fighter jets. HAL’s Chairman DK Sunil described it as “wonderful and proven to be reliable.” These engines offer,

• High thrust-to-weight ratio
• Low maintenance requirements
• Compatibility with multiple combat systems

This engine selection ensures that the Tejas Mk 1A remains agile, efficient, and combat-ready, boosting India’s indigenous defence capabilities.

Future Plans: F414 Engines for LCA Mk 2

While this deal supports the current Tejas Mk 1A production, HAL is also in discussions with GE to finalise joint production of the F414 engines, which will power the upcoming LCA Mk 2 aircraft.

This future cooperation is expected to,

• Strengthen technology transfer and joint manufacturing
• Deepen India-US defence industrial ties
• Support the next generation of fighter jets for the IAF

Recent Milestones in the Tejas Programme

• In October 2025, the LCA Tejas Mk 1A performed its first public sortie at HAL’s Nashik facility
• This flight marked a key step toward operational readiness and enhanced public confidence in the programme