India’s indigenous Tejas Mk1A fighter programme received a significant operational boost as US aerospace manufacturer GE Aerospace delivered 4 additional F404-IN20 jet engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Shipped in September 2026, this latest consignment brings the total count of engines received by HAL for the Tejas Mk1A fleet to 14. The delivery represents ongoing progress under a ₹5,375 crore contract finalized in 2021 covering 99 powerplants designed to power the Indian Air Force’s light combat aircraft fleet.

The deal signed in 2021 secures the supply of 99 F404-IN20 engines, ensuring a consistent flow of powerplants for the assembly of Tejas Mk1A jets. In a statement, GE Aerospace reaffirmed its commitment to supporting India’s fighter jet production schedule, noting that the September 2026 delivery keeps manufacturing lines active as HAL integrates these engines into ready airframes for operational deployment.

Why Is GE F404 Engine Ideal For Tejas Jet?

The F404-IN20 is an adapted variant engineered specifically for India’s single-engine Tejas fighter, delivering the highest thrust output within the global F404 engine family. It features advanced technical enhancements including a higher-flow fan, single-crystal turbine blades, and specialized components optimized for demanding flight environments. Used in thousands of military aircraft globally, the F404 powerplant has proven to be an exceptional operational fit for the indigenous jet.

GE Aerospace’s partnership with India’s military aviation sector began in the 1980s through collaboration with the Aeronautical Development Agency. Selected in 2004 to power the single-engine Tejas, the F404-IN20 played a pivotal role during early flight testing. During a historic test flight in 2008, the engine powered the Tejas to mission altitudes and a speed of Mach 1.1, cementing a decades-long defense aerospace alliance.