After a two-year wait, General Electric (GE) has finally delivered the first of 99 F-404 turbofan engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the TEJAS Mark-1A fighter jets.
With HAL hoping to boost output in the future years, it is expected that this delivery will greatly increase the indigenous aircraft’s production capability. In August 2021, the ₹5,375 crore contract for these engines was signed, and GE promised to supply 12 engines in the first year and 20 per year after that.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has expressed urgency regarding the need for new fighters, with Air Chief Marshal A P Singh emphasizing that the force requires at least 40 new aircraft each year to maintain combat readiness.
Currently, the IAF’s strength stands at only 30 fighter squadrons, well below the authorised limit of 42. The delayed engine deliveries have contributed to production setbacks for the TEJAS MK-1A, which is designed to replace older MiG-21 aircraft and bolster India’s defence capabilities.
HAL plans to resolve various developmental challenges, including the test-firing of the Astra air-to-air missile and the integration of critical systems necessary for the TEJAS MK-1A’s operational capabilities.
With the help of a third production line that recently went up in Nashik, the business is hopeful about increasing production to 20 aircraft annually and eventually reaching 24.
HAL and GE are in talks about co-producing the more sophisticated GE-F414 engines for upcoming TEJAS variants in addition to completing existing orders.
In addition to guaranteeing that the IAF receives aircraft that are up to date and capable, this partnership seeks to increase India’s independence in defence manufacture.
