GE Aerospace and HAL Join Forces to Tackle Delays in Tejas LCA Mk-1A Engine Deliveries

GE Aerospace, the American engine manufacturer, has confirmed its active collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to address delays in the supply of F404 engines for India’s Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A program. These delays, caused by widespread supply chain challenges, have raised concerns about the timely delivery of the new fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The F404 engine delay, currently estimated to be around ten months, is critical as it directly affects the delivery timeline of the Mk-1A, intended to replace the aging MiG-21 fighters in the IAF's fleet. This delay has heightened concerns within the IAF, which is already facing a shortage of fighter squadrons.

GE Aerospace has acknowledged the unprecedented supply chain pressures facing the industry and has assured that they are working collaboratively with HAL and other suppliers to resolve constraints and expedite engine deliveries. The IAF has communicated its concerns to HAL, emphasizing the need for timely execution of the Rs. 48,000 crore contract for 83 LCA Mk-1A jets.

HAL, aiming to deliver the first aircraft in August, has outlined plans to deliver 16 fighters to the IAF in the 2024-25 financial year, with the remaining aircraft to be delivered by 2028-29. However, the successful execution of this plan hinges on GE Aerospace's ability to accelerate engine deliveries, as HAL's current engine inventory is insufficient.

Despite the challenges, HAL remains optimistic. Officials have acknowledged the delay but emphasized ongoing efforts to mitigate its impact. These efforts include the potential use of reserve engines for initial flights and subsequent retrofitting with GE engines upon delivery.

Looking towards the future, HAL and GE Aerospace are exploring a long-term partnership for the production of 99 F414 engines for the upcoming LCA Mk-2 program. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in June 2023 outlined plans for an 80% technology transfer to India, with an estimated value of around $1 billion. The F414 engine, an evolution of the F404, is expected to enhance the indigenous content of the Mk-2 jets to 75%.

The collaborative efforts between GE Aerospace and HAL to resolve the current delays in engine delivery are crucial for maintaining the planned production schedule of the Tejas LCA Mk-1A. Their partnership not only aims to address immediate supply chain issues but also to bolster the future of India's indigenous fighter jet programs.