US aerospace major GE Aerospace has delivered three F404-IN20 engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A programme, providing a boost to a fighter project that has been slowed by engine shortages.
The engines were shipped to HAL in August 2026, taking the total number of F404-IN20 engines delivered for the Tejas Mk1A programme to 10. GE Aerospace said it remained committed to its partnership with HAL and the Indian Air Force to support India’s indigenous fighter aircraft programme.
The delivery comes as engine availability continues to affect production and aircraft deliveries. HAL has said its manufacturing line is ready, but the pace of production remains dependent on the timely arrival of engines from GE Aerospace. The company has also imposed contractual penalties or liquidated damages, on GE for delayed supplies.
The Indian Air Force has ordered 180 Tejas Mk1A fighters from HAL in two tranches. The first order, placed in February 2021, covered 83 aircraft, including 73 fighters and 10 trainers. A second order for 97 aircraft was placed in September 2025 for more than ₹62,370 crore. HAL currently has an annual production capacity of 24 aircraft.
The F404-IN20 engines are being supplied under a 2021 agreement valued at approximately $716 million. The deal covers 99 engines for the initial Tejas Mk1A order. Supply schedules were affected by disruptions in the global component chain, including problems involving a South Korean supplier.
In April, former HAL chairman DK Sunil said GE Aerospace had assured the company that it would deliver 20 engines between June and December 2026. He described that figure as a conservative estimate and said the US manufacturer could potentially deliver more.
The latest shipment also had an immediate impact on investor sentiment. Shares of HAL rose nearly 3% on the National Stock Exchange after GE announced the August deliveries, reflecting expectations that improved engine availability could help the company accelerate aircraft production.
The F404 has powered the Tejas programme since its development phase. GE Aerospace has previously delivered engines for earlier versions of the aircraft and restarted production of the F404-IN20 line after receiving the 99-engine order in 2021.
The Tejas Mk1A is an upgraded, single-engine, multi-role fighter designed for air defence, ground attack and maritime missions. It is a key part of the Indian Air Force’s effort to replace ageing MiG-21 aircraft and address declining fighter squadron strength.
For HAL, the arrival of additional engines removes one immediate obstacle from the production line. However, sustained monthly deliveries will be essential if the company is to clear accumulated delays and meet the Indian Air Force’s requirements for 180 aircraft. GE Aerospace has indicated that further supplies are expected during the second half of 2026.
