Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has received the fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine from GE Aerospace. This delivery is part of a 2021 contract, where GE Aerospace will supply 99 engines to HAL.
HAL officials confirmed that the first two Tejas Mk1A aircraft will be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) soon. At least 10 more units are ready and waiting for engines.
GE Aerospace starts with two Jets
“We are all set for our first delivery to the Indian Air Force. We can start with two jets initially. Weapon firing is already ongoing. Plus, we have at least 10 additional units ready and waiting for engines.
The engines are part of the same 2021 contract, which involves the supply of 99 F404 engines to HAL. Officials stated that production can increase as more engines arrive. Meanwhile, officials mentioned that flight tests from HAL’s Nashik facility are planned for later this month, and weapon firing trials are already in progress.
Investment in Fourth F404-IN20 Engine
“Later this month, we have a flight test scheduled from our Nashik facility. We are fully prepared to ramp up production,” the officials said. The Nashik facility, which opened in April 2023 with over ₹150 crore in investment, serves as HAL’s third production line for the Tejas Mk1A. This line complements the two existing lines in Bengaluru. The GE Aerospace aims to produce eight aircraft annually, supporting HAL’s goal of delivering 24 Tejas Mk1A units each year starting in 2027.
Read also: Shah Rukh Khan hosts Filmfare Awards 2025 In Ahmedabad with Karan Johar