Farnborough: HAL and GE Aerospace held an important high-level meeting at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026 to discuss delays in the supply of F404-IN20 engines for the LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jet.
The meeting focused on improving engine deliveries, fixing supply chain problems, and expanding cooperation in aircraft engine maintenance and repair. The discussions are important because the Indian Air Force is waiting for new Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft.
According to official information shared by HAL during the Farnborough Airshow, both companies also discussed strengthening their long-term aerospace partnership.
Why Are HAL and GE Aerospace Holding HAL GE Aerospace Farnborough Meeting
The meeting was led by HAL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. D. K. Sunil and GE Aerospace Chairman and CEO H. Lawrence (Larry) Culp Jr.
Read also: Big Boost for IAF: HAL Plans to Produce 30 Tejas Mk1A Fighter Jets Every Year by 2027-28
The main goal was to review the ongoing partnership and find practical solutions to speed up the delivery of GE F404-IN20 engines, which power the Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft. Both companies agreed that solving supply chain issues is necessary to keep India’s defence production on schedule.
Why Are Tejas Mk1A Engine Deliveries Delayed
The GE F404-IN20 engine is one of the most important parts of the Tejas Mk1A. In 2021, HAL signed a contract with GE Aerospace for 99 F404-IN20 engines. However, global supply chain disruptions and manufacturing challenges slowed production, causing delays in engine deliveries. Because of this, the delivery of Tejas Mk1A fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF) has also been delayed.
HAL has continued manufacturing aircraft so they can receive engines immediately after they arrive.
What Was Discussed During the HAL GE Aerospace Farnborough Meeting
During the meeting, HAL and GE Aerospace focused on several important topics.
Key discussion points included:
- Faster delivery of F404-IN20 engines.
- Solving supply chain bottlenecks.
- Better production planning.
- Reliable engine delivery timelines.
- Expanding Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) cooperation.
- Supporting India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.
- Strengthening long-term India-US defence cooperation.
The discussions were aimed at both solving current problems and preparing for future defence projects.
What Is the F404-IN20 Engine
The GE F404-IN20 is an advanced afterburning turbofan engine developed by GE Aerospace. It powers the LCA Tejas Mk1A, India’s indigenous light combat aircraft developed by HAL for the Indian Air Force. The engine provides the speed, thrust, and reliability needed for modern combat operations.
How Will This Meeting Help the Indian Air Force
If engine deliveries improve, HAL will be able to deliver Tejas Mk1A fighter jets much faster. This will help the Indian Air Force replace older aircraft and strengthen India’s air defence capabilities. Faster deliveries will also improve fleet readiness and operational capability.
HAL Is Also Expanding India’s MRO Capabilities
Another major topic of discussion was Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO). HAL and GE Aerospace want to expand engine repair and servicing facilities inside India.
A stronger domestic MRO network will:
- Reduce dependence on foreign repair centres.
- Cut maintenance time.
- Improve aircraft availability.
- Support the “Make in India” initiative.
- Strengthen India’s aerospace industry.
Read also: Big Boost for IAF: HAL Completes First 20 Tejas Mk1A Jets, Engine Delivery Now the Final Hurdle
