HAL’s HTFE-25 Engine Program Hit by Test-Bed Approval Delays, Parliamentary Report

Bengaluru — Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) HTFE-25 turbofan programme has been significantly delayed due to late approvals and shortages in test-bed infrastructure, a parliamentary Committee on Public Undertakings reported in March 2025. The committee found that essential testing facilities and procurement milestones were not ready when required, resulting in schedule slippages and increased costs.

Project Significance And Scope

The HTFE-25 (Hindustan Turbo Fan Engine — 25 kN) is being developed at HAL’s Aero Engine Research & Development Centre (AERDC) in Bengaluru. Designed for advanced trainers, light combat aircraft, UAVs, and small jets, the engine is considered crucial for India’s goal of achieving indigenous aero-engine capability and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.

What Went Wrong: Test Beds, Procurement And Vendor Problems

According to the committee, HAL encountered delayed land and clearance approvals for constructing test facilities. The absence of early-stage test-bed infrastructure forced HAL into unplanned procurement and retrofitting, further delaying progress.

The report also highlighted supply-chain difficulties, including late deliveries of critical components like the Intermediate Gear Box and challenges in developing spiral bevel gears, along with limited domestic availability of specialised manufacturing processes.

As a result, Full Engine Technology Demonstrator testing could not proceed on schedule because component readiness and configuration decisions were dependent on the missing test infrastructure. The committee recommended that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) ensure test beds and key facilities are established before major D&D projects begin.

Official Responses And Recent Steps

The MoD inaugurated upgraded test and design facilities at AERDC on December 29, 2023, aimed at accelerating India’s engine development capabilities. HAL and MoD representatives told the committee they are improving planning, procurement and vendor development to prevent recurrence of such delays.

Analysts have pointed to long-standing issues such as vendor immaturity, clearance delays, and lack of specialised test rigs, urging faster capital investment and tighter oversight to keep the HTFE-25 programme moving.

Impact on Timelines And Wider Implications

Delays in the HTFE-25 gas-turbine project have extended R&D timelines, pushed back certification milestones, and created uncertainty for platforms expected to use the engine. The committee stressed the need for dedicated funding for test-bed infrastructure and stronger project governance.

A successful HTFE-25 would strengthen India’s aerospace sector by providing a homegrown medium-thrust engine for future trainers, UCAVs, and light combat aircraft. Continued delays, however, risk prolonging dependence on foreign engines and slowing India’s Atmanirbhar defence manufacturing goals.

What’s Next

The committee has directed the MoD to monitor corrective actions and ensure HAL prioritises test-bed readiness and vendor development in upcoming programmes. HAL officials say remedial steps are underway; observers note that the programme’s progress will depend on achieving timely demonstrator and certification testing over the next 12–36 months.