GE Aerospace Delivers Game-Changing F404 Engines for India's Tejas Jets

GE Aerospace has delivered the first of 99 F404-IN20 engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for India's Tejas fighter jets. This crucial step aims to facilitate the delivery of these jets to the Indian Air Force, overcoming previous delays due to engine supply issues. The F404 family powers numerous combat aircraft globally.

In a significant development for India's defense sector, GE Aerospace has delivered the first of 99 F404-IN20 engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This delivery marks a milestone in the Tejas light combat jet program, which has faced delays because of engine supply issues.

The $6.5 billion contract for 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets, signed in February 2021 between India's defense ministry and HAL, had seen setbacks, with not a single jet delivered yet. The delivery of the engines is expected to expedite the process, enabling HAL to begin transfers to the Indian Air Force.

GE Aerospace's F404-IN20 engine, tailored for India's fighter program, showcases advanced features like a higher-flow fan and single-crystal turbine blades. As a testament to its importance, the production line was restarted after five years, despite pandemic challenges, to meet India's requirements.

(With inputs from agencies.)