New Delhi: HAL receives seventh GE engine in a major boost for India’s Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft programme. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has received the seventh GE F404-IN20 engine from GE Aerospace after the sixth engine, which earlier developed a minor technical issue, was successfully repaired and cleared for operational use. The development is expected to speed up aircraft production, testing, and future deliveries to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Details of 7th GE F404-IN20 Engine for Tejas Mk1A
According to official information shared through defence sources, the sixth GE F404-IN20 engine had developed a minor technical issue during routine quality inspections after arriving in India.
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HAL immediately informed GE Aerospace about the issue. The company carried out the required rectification, after which HAL completed its own verification checks and certified the engine as fit for operational use.
Why the Tejas Mk1A Programme Was Delayed
The Tejas Mk1A programme has experienced delays over the past two years mainly because GE Aerospace delivered the F404-IN20 engines later than originally planned. Apart from engine availability, aircraft integration and certification work also affected the delivery schedule. The engines are being supplied under a ₹5,375 crore contract signed in 2021 for the delivery of 99 GE F404-IN20 engines.
GE F404-IN20 Engine for Tejas Mk1A: Defence Ministry Closely Monitoring Progress
The Ministry of Defence and the Indian Air Force are closely monitoring the progress of the Tejas Mk1A programme. Reports indicate that HAL has been asked to meet contractual timelines, while discussions regarding delays and project milestones continue. If integration and certification activities remain on schedule, the first batch of Tejas Mk1A fighter jets is expected to be delivered after IAF acceptance later this year.
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