India Receives Second GE-F404 Engine for LCA Tejas
India recently received the second GE-F404 engine from the United States for its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark-1A programme. This marks a key step in the ongoing effort to strengthen the Indian Air Force (IAF) with indigenous fighter jets. Despite delays caused by supply chain disruptions, deliveries of these engines are now underway. The public sector company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is responsible for integrating these engines into the LCA Tejas Mk-1A jets.
Delivery and Procurement Status
HAL took delivery of the second GE-F404 engine in July 2025. A total of 12 engines are expected by the end of the financial year. HAL had placed a ₹5,375 crore order for 99 engines with GE Aerospace in August 2021. The IAF has ordered 83 LCA Mk-1A jets and plans to procure an additional 97 aircraft. The Defence Ministry has given clearance for this expanded order, worth about ₹67,000 crore.
Integration and Production Process
The engine integration process takes about a month per aircraft. It begins with fuselage assembly, followed by lobing, piping, and landing gear installation. After engine installation, ground tests including high-speed runs are conducted to ensure performance and safety. HAL aims to produce 16 jets annually, contingent on timely engine deliveries. The original plan targets full delivery of all jets by 2030.
Technical Upgrades in LCA Mk-1A
The LCA Mk-1A features multiple upgrades over the earlier Mk-1 version. It includes an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and an advanced electronic warfare suite with a jammer. The aircraft supports Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat capability with integration of Derby and the indigenous ASTRA missile. Testing of ASTRA missile firings from the aircraft is currently underway.
Strategic Importance and Challenges
The timely induction of LCA Mk-1A jets is critical to maintain IAF squadron strength. The IAF has phased out most of its MiG-21 squadrons and plans to retire other ageing fighters in the next decade. Delays in engine deliveries had pushed back aircraft deliveries by over a year. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has engaged with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to expedite engine supplies and enhance defence cooperation between the two countries.
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