GE F404 engine India deal strengthens HAL Tejas Mk 1A production in 2025, boosting IAF’s fighter jet capability amid modernization drive.
India Secures Second GE‑F404 Engine to Power Tejas Mk 1A Fighter Jets ⚙️
India Continues Strengthening Tejas Mk 1A Fleet with GE‑F404 Engines
India has recently taken delivery of the second GE‑F404‑IN20 turbofan engine from General Electric Aerospace for integration into the home-grown Tejas Mk 1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Initially contracted in August 2021, the ₹5,375‑crore deal covers 99 engines, ensuring a major boost for India’s indigenous defence manufacturing
Strengthening Fleet Readiness
The arrival of the second engine paves the way for 12 F404 engines to be delivered by the end of the current financial year. These engines will enable HAL to produce at least 12 Tejas Mk 1A jets in 2025, boosting the IAF’s squadron strength
Overcoming Supply Chain Delays
Originally delayed by nearly two years due to global supply‑chain issues and GE’s production halt, the F404‑IN20 production line was restarted in late 2024. The first engine arrived in March 2025, followed by the second in mid‑July
High‑Thrust Engine Enhances Combat Capability
The uprated F404‑IN20 variant unleashes up to 19,000 lbf of thrust, equipped with a digital FADEC system for improved performance. It’s the same engine powering Tejas Mk 1 and Mk 1A, while the upcoming Tejas Mk 2 will use the more powerful GE‑F414‑INS6
IAF’s Growing Modernization Needs
With just 31 operational squadrons currently vs. the sanctioned 42.5, India urgently needs new jets as ageing MiG‑21s are retired. The Mk 1A, fitted with AESA radar, advanced EW suite, and integration capability for Derby and Astra missiles, is expected to significantly enhance aerial combat readiness
Long‑Term Engine Supply Strategy
GE plans to deliver two engines per month through March 2026, stabilizing supply chains and ensuring steady jet production. Post‑2026, output is set to rise to 20 engines annually, supporting expanded production at HAL
Why This News Is Important
Strategic Importance for Defence Expansion
India’s acquisition of the GE‑F404 engines is critical to ramping up indigenous fighter jet manufacturing. The arrival of each engine directly translates to a Tejas Mk 1A jet being built, addressing the IAF’s urgent need to rebuild its shrinking squadron strength against regional threats.
Boost to “Make in India” Mission
This deal reinforces Make in India’s defence self-reliance goals, enabling HAL to scale up production domestically. It also signals improved supply chain resilience after past disruptions due to COVID‑19 and component bottlenecks.
Historical Context
Kaveri Engine Setback and Interim Strategy
Since the 1980s, India has pursued an indigenous Kaveri engine via DRDO’s GTRE. However, performance and timeline issues led to procuring GE’s F404 engine as an interim fix for the Mk 1 variant
Revival of F404‑IN20 Production
GE had halted F404 production in 2016. Following delays, the production line was revived in late 2024, enabling new deliveries. The first F404‑IN20 engine from reactivation reached India on March 25, 2025
Future Engine Plans: F414 and Indigenous Engines
For Tejas Mk 2, India opted for the F414‑INS6, with agreements on co‑production set by 2023. Simultaneously, plans for AMCA-class indigenous engines with French or British collaborators are underway, aiming for mid‑2030s operational readiness
Key Takeaways from India’s GE‑F404 Engine Acquisition
| # | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | India received its second GE‑F404‑IN20 engine in mid‑July 2025. |
| 2 | 12 engines will be supplied by the end of the current financial year. |
| 3 | Engine disruptions stemmed from halted F404 production (2016–2024). |
| 4 | The F404‑IN20 delivers 19,000 lbf thrust with FADEC for Tejas Mk 1A. |
| 5 | Deliveries at 2/month through March 2026, then 20/year from 2026 onward. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the GE‑F404 engine and why is it important for India?
The GE‑F404 is an advanced afterburning turbofan engine developed by General Electric, known for powering lightweight fighter aircraft. For India, it is vital as it powers the indigenous Tejas Mk 1A jets, aiding self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
2. How many GE‑F404‑IN20 engines has India received so far?
As of July 2025, India has received two GE‑F404‑IN20 engines. The total contracted number is 99 engines.
3. What are the thrust and features of the F404‑IN20 engine?
The F404‑IN20 delivers up to 19,000 pounds of thrust and includes a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system, enhancing performance and safety.
4. Why is the Tejas Mk 1A important for the Indian Air Force?
The Tejas Mk 1A boosts India’s combat air power with modern avionics, AESA radar, and missile compatibility (Astra and Derby). It replaces aging MiG‑21s and strengthens India’s air defence capabilities.
5. What is the future plan for engine production and delivery?
GE will deliver 12 engines by the end of FY25, two per month until March 2026, and later ramp up to 20 per year.
Some Important Current Affairs Links
