HAL Receives Third GE-404 Engine for LCA Mk1A Fighter Jet

Post by : Meena Rani

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s leading aerospace and defense company, has reached a major milestone in its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A program. On September 11, 2025, HAL received the third GE-404 engine from the United States. This delivery is a key step forward in the production and readiness of the Tejas Mk1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The LCA Tejas Mk1A is an improved version of the original Tejas fighter aircraft. It is designed to strengthen India’s air defense capabilities with modern technology, improved performance, and advanced weapons systems. The GE-404 engine, produced by General Electric, is the heart of the aircraft, providing the power and thrust required for high-speed maneuvers and operations in demanding conditions.

Receiving the third engine shows that HAL is making steady progress in the production line and moving closer to delivering the aircraft to the Indian Air Force. The engines are crucial because they determine the aircraft’s performance in terms of speed, agility, and operational efficiency. Without these engines, HAL cannot complete the first batch of aircraft for delivery.

Importance of the GE-404 Engine

The GE-404 engine is a highly reliable and powerful engine, specifically designed for fighter aircraft. It allows the LCA Mk1A to achieve higher speeds, better maneuverability, and longer operational range. With this engine, the Tejas Mk1A can carry advanced weapons, operate in various weather conditions, and perform complex aerial missions required for modern air combat.

HAL’s receipt of the third engine also reflects the strong partnership between India and the United States in defense technology. The engines are imported under strict quality standards and help ensure that India’s fighter aircraft meet international operational standards. Once installed in the aircraft, the engines will undergo rigorous testing to confirm performance and reliability.

Production Timeline and Future Deliveries

HAL expects the fourth GE-404 engine to arrive by the end of September 2025. This is part of a larger plan to receive a total of 12 engines by the end of the current financial year. These engines will be used to power the Tejas Mk1A aircraft and ensure that the production schedule remains on track.

The first two Tejas Mk1A aircraft are scheduled to be delivered to the Indian Air Force in October 2025. Before delivery, the aircraft will complete final weapon firing trials to ensure that all systems, including weapons, avionics, and engines, function perfectly. Once these trials are complete, the aircraft will officially enter operational service with the IAF.

Indigenous Production and ‘Make in India’ Initiative

The Tejas Mk1A program is an example of India’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. While the engines are imported, HAL manufactures most of the aircraft domestically. Indian companies supply key components such as wings, fuselage sections, landing gear, avionics systems, and electronic warfare equipment.

For instance, Larsen & Toubro produces wing assemblies, while VEM Technologies manufactures fuselage sections. Other Indian private companies are involved in making precision components and electronic systems. This domestic production reduces dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthens India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem.

The program also aligns with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which emphasizes self-reliance in critical sectors, including defense. By manufacturing most parts in India and assembling the aircraft domestically, the country saves foreign exchange, creates jobs, and builds technical expertise in advanced aerospace technologies.

Advanced Features of Tejas Mk1A

The Tejas Mk1A is equipped with several upgrades over the earlier Mk1 version. These include:

• Improved radar and avionics for better target detection and tracking.

• Advanced electronic warfare and countermeasure systems to enhance survivability.

• Higher payload capacity for a wider range of weapons, including missiles and bombs.

• Enhanced airframe strength and durability for longer operational life.

• Improved maintainability and easier logistics support for the Indian Air Force.

These improvements make the LCA Mk1A a modern and versatile fighter capable of handling multiple roles, including air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and training.

Strategic Importance

The Tejas Mk1A program is not only important for India’s defense but also for national security and regional balance. By strengthening the Air Force with modern fighter jets, India ensures that it can protect its airspace and respond to any threats effectively.

With indigenous production capabilities, India also reduces its reliance on imports from other countries for critical defense equipment. This is particularly important during times of geopolitical tension, when foreign supplies may be delayed or restricted.

Challenges and Achievements

Developing the LCA Tejas Mk1A has been a long journey for HAL. The project faced several technical and logistical challenges, including developing a lightweight yet strong airframe, integrating modern avionics, and ensuring the aircraft meets stringent safety and performance standards.

Despite these challenges, HAL has successfully built a production line and delivered several aircraft to the Indian Air Force in previous batches. The receipt of the third GE-404 engine is a continuation of this success and shows the steady pace of development and production.

Future Outlook

With the delivery of more engines and continued production, HAL is expected to supply additional Tejas Mk1A aircraft in the coming years. This will gradually replace older aircraft in the IAF fleet and provide a more modern, capable, and reliable air force.

The Tejas Mk1A program also lays the foundation for future fighter programs, including the Tejas Mk2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which are planned to feature more powerful engines and advanced stealth technology.

In conclusion, HAL’s receipt of the third GE-404 engine marks a significant milestone for India’s defense industry. It demonstrates the country’s growing aerospace capabilities, successful international collaboration, and commitment to self-reliance in defense production. The LCA Tejas Mk1A will soon enhance the operational strength of the Indian Air Force, ensuring better security and preparedness for the nation.

HAL, GE-404 engine, LCA Mk1A, Tejas Mk1A, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited