The GE F404 engine has once again taken center stage in India’s fighter jet production narrative. In a major milestone, GE delivered the second GE F404 engine to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This marks a significant recovery in the LCA Mk1A program. HAL faced setbacks primarily due to delays in engine delivery. However, now everything appears to be back on track.
GE F404 Engine Supply Now Back on Track
Back in February 2021, India signed a ₹48,000 crore deal with HAL. The contract covered 73 Tejas Mk1A jets and 10 trainer aircraft. The Indian Air Force (IAF) expected the first batch in 2024. However, production lagged due to GE’s halted F404 manufacturing line.
When India placed the order, GE had already closed the GE F404 production. No fresh orders existed to keep the line active. Later, the Indian government’s clearance revived interest. GE restarted production after overcoming vendor-related disruptions during the COVID-19 era.
Initially, the vendor network had shifted to other supply chains. Restarting the engine line proved complex. Multiple delays followed. GE failed to meet original delivery timelines, extending the delay beyond 18 months.
HAL Receives Second Engine in July 2025
GE finally delivered the first engine on March 26, 2025. On July 13, 2025, GE dispatched the second unit. With this delivery, the company signaled stability in its production process. GE now plans to deliver two engines monthly.
This frequency matches HAL’s planned aircraft rollout pace. Tejas Mk1A requires continuous engine availability to meet targets. HAL can now scale production confidently. The engine delay had slowed progress. Now, GE’s consistent supply will reverse the situation.
Full-Scale Production of Tejas Mk1A Set to Begin
The Tejas Mk1A, now under final tuning, will soon enter regular production. Recently the images shared by HAL displayed aircrafts with Tail number upto LA5041. The first LCA Mk1A was LA5033 and by the serial number at least 9 airframes are coupled. With AESA radar, new electronic systems, and enhanced weapon payload, it offers 4.5-generation capabilities.
HAL originally planned to deliver 16 aircraft yearly. The new engine delivery pace supports 24 aircraft per year. This sharp rise compensates for past setbacks. HAL will still meet the deadline of its full order book despite the initial lag.
Future Orders to Expand HAL’s Capacity
The IAF is preparing to order 97 additional Tejas Mk1A units. This upcoming deal will help HAL plan long-term production. With fresh vendors entering the scene, the supply chain is strengthening.
This expanded network allows faster part manufacturing and smoother integration. By the end of this financial year, IAF expects to receive 12 jets. This timeline now looks realistic thanks to engine availability.
The GE F404’s return ensures India’s indigenous fighter program regains lost momentum. HAL, backed by solid planning and strong vendor partnerships, is moving ahead swiftly.