HAL Signs Deal with GE for Light Combat Aircrafts Mk1A Engines

In a major milestone for India’s aerospace sector, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a $1-billion (₹8,868 crore) contract with General Electric (GE), USA, for the supply of 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines to power the next batch of 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A. The agreement marks a decisive step toward enhancing India’s indigenous fighter production capacity under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

Expansion of LCA Mk1A Production

The latest contract brings the total number of F404 engines ordered from GE to 212, including 99 engines previously contracted in 2021 for 83 aircraft. The new batch of 113 engines will support production for 97 aircraft, while 32 additional units will cater to testing and operational needs. HAL confirmed that deliveries under this deal will commence in 2027 and continue through 2032, matching the production cycle of the LCA Mk1A fleet.

Strategic Importance and Indigenous Integration

The Ministry of Defence had earlier approved a ₹62,370-crore procurement plan for 97 LCA Mk1A fighters, consisting of 68 single-seaters and 29 twin-seaters for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The upcoming aircraft will feature more than 64 per cent indigenous content, including new systems like the UTTAM AESA radar, the Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic warfare suite, and Indian-made actuators — all aimed at boosting self-reliance in high-technology defence systems.

Previous Contracts and Supply Chain Progress

In 2021, HAL had signed a $716-million deal with GE for 99 F404-IN20 engines to power the first batch of Tejas Mk1A fighters. Deliveries from that agreement began in 2025 after pandemic-related delays. The addition of this new order ensures long-term supply stability for the IAF’s expanding LCA programme and reflects growing confidence in HAL’s production capabilities.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The $1-billion HAL-GE deal covers 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines for 97 LCA Mk1A aircraft.
• Total engines ordered under the Mk1A programme now stand at 212 units.
• The LCA Mk1A features over 64% indigenous content and advanced radar and EW systems.
• Deliveries of new engines are scheduled between 2027 and 2032.

Future Collaboration and Advanced Engine Development

HAL and GE are also in advanced talks for joint manufacturing of the more powerful F414 engine in India, with an estimated 80 per cent transfer of technology. The F414 engine will power the upcoming LCA Mk2 and the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), positioning India for greater technological autonomy in combat aviation over the next decade.