Introduction
 

1. The recent delivery of the F404-IN20 engine by GE Aerospace to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) marks a critical milestone in India's indigenous fighter jet program.
2. This delivery is a crucial step in equipping the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A, a key component of India's air defence modernization efforts.
3. This article provides an in-depth look at the history, challenges, and significance of this deal, along with technical insights into the F404-IN20 engine and its impact on the Tejas Mk-1A's performance.
    

India-GE Aerospace Agreement
 

1. History and Significance of the Deal

1. GE Aerospace's partnership with India began in the 1980s, working with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).
2. In 2004, the F404-IN20 engine was selected for the Tejas fighter jet, marking a key milestone in India’s indigenous fighter development.
3. By 2016, 65 F404-IN20 engines had been delivered for 40 Tejas Mk1 jets. However, production halted due to no new orders.

2. New Contract & Production Challenges

1. In August 2021, India signed a ₹5,375 crore (~$690M) contract with GE Aerospace for 99 additional engines, as part of a ₹48,000 crore procurement deal for 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets.
2. Since the F404-IN20 production line had been dormant for five years, restarting it caused a two-year delay, impacting Tejas Mk-1A production timelines.

3. Current Status & Delivery Timeline

1. On March 25, 2025, GE Aerospace delivered the first of 99 engines to HAL.
2. Under the contract:
   • 2025: 12 engines to be delivered.
   • 2026-2029: 20 engines annually until all 99 engines are delivered.
3. The first Tejas Mk-1A squadrons are expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
    

Key Features of the F404-IN20 engine
 

1. Highest Thrust in F404 Family:
   • The F404-IN20 engine produces a maximum of 19,000 lbf (85 kN) of thrust (with afterburner) making it the highest thrust variant within the F404 family.
2. Full Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC):
   • The F404-IN20 incorporates a FADEC system, which provides reliable power and performance by digitally controlling engine functions, enhancing safety and efficiency.
3. Advanced Hot Section Materials & Technologies:
   • Incorporates GE’s latest materials, including single-crystal turbine blades, enhancing performance, durability, and heat resistance.
4. Special Components:
   • The engine includes numerous special components tailored specifically for the Indian Air Force's requirements.

1. 5119. the F404-IN20 Enhances Tejas Mk-1A

1 Performance Boost

1. Thrust & Power: Ensures rapid acceleration and high manoeuvrability.
2. Combat Readiness: Supports air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.
3. Fuel Efficiency: Extends range and endurance for longer missions.

2 Operational Benefits

1. Reliability: Advanced turbine technology reduces maintenance and downtime.
2. Safety: FADEC system minimizes pilot workload and risk of failure.
3. Seamless Integration: Works efficiently with Tejas’ avionics system.

3 Strategic Importance

1. Enhances India's Air Defense with a modernized, combat-ready fighter.
2. Supports Indigenous Manufacturing, reducing reliance on foreign defense imports.
    

Tejas LCA Mk 1A: India’s Indigenous Fighter Jet
 

1. The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk 1A, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), is an upgraded variant of India’s indigenous fighter jet.
2. The first squadron of Tejas Mk 1A will be based at Nal Air Base, Rajasthan.

1. Key Features

1. Advanced Avionics
   • Equipped with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar (Israeli EL/M-2052 & indigenous Uttam AESA Radar).
   • Unified Electronic Warfare Suite (UEWS) with electronic countermeasures (ECM) and electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM) for superior survivability.
2. Flight Control System
   • Upgraded Digital Fly-by-Wire Flight Control Computer (DFCC) Mk 1A for enhanced manoeuvrability.
   • Quadraplex PowerPC-based processor ensuring robust performance.
3. Survivability Enhancements
   • Advanced Self-Protection Jammer (ASPJ) to counter enemy radar detection.
   • Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE) Unified Electronic Warfare Suite (UEWS) for advanced electronic warfare capabilities.
4. Weaponry & Payload
   • Nine hardpoints for Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles, air-to-air & air-to-ground missiles.
   • Supports precision-guided munitions (PGMs) & stand-off weapons.
5. Operational Capabilities
   • In-flight refuelling extends range.
   • Onboard Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) enhances pilot endurance.
6. Cockpit & Displays
   • Night Vision Goggles (NVG)-compatible glass cockpit with Head-Up Display (HUD) & multi-function displays (MFDs).
   • Hands-On-Throttle-And-Stick (HOTAS) system for reduced pilot workload & faster response.

2. Performance Specifications

1. Maximum Speed: Mach 1.8
2. Range: ~850 km (general) / 500 km (combat range)
3. Maximum Take-off Weight: 13,300 kg
4. Payload Capacity: Up to 4,000 kg
    

The delivery of the F404-IN20 engines by GE Aerospace is a critical step forward for India's Tejas LCA-Mk1A program, marking a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between GE Aerospace and HAL. This collaboration not only enhances India's military capabilities but also underscores the commitment to developing next-generation fighters and bolstering defence manufacturing in India.
 

Appendix A: About GE Aerospace GE Aerospace, headquartered in Evendale, Ohio(US), is a leading U.S. aerospace company founded in 1917 and rebranded from GE Aviation in July 2022 to reflect its broader focus. With over $38.7 billion in revenue and approximately 53,000 employees in 2024, the company specializes in jet and turboprop engines, integrated aircraft systems, and sustainable technologies. Its key partnership through the 50/50 joint venture, CFM International with Safran, powers most U.S. military aircraft and three out of every four commercial flights worldwide.

 

Appendix B: About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), established on December 23, 1940, is one of the world's oldest and largest aerospace and defense manufacturers. Headquartered in Bengaluru, India, HAL operates 11 dedicated Research and Development centres and 21 manufacturing divisions across the country. The company specializes in designing, developing, manufacturing, and servicing aircraft, helicopters, aero-engines, avionics, and aerospace structures for both military and civil markets. ​ In October 2024, HAL was granted 'Maharatna' status, enhancing its operational and financial autonomy.

 

Appendix C: Recent defence deals and partnerships India-France Defence Deals Rafale-Marine Fighters: Deal Value: Approximately ₹63,000 crore Details: India plans to acquire 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy, which will operate from the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier. Scorpene Submarines: Deal Value: ₹38,000 crore Details: Three additional Scorpene diesel-electric submarines with air-independent propulsion are to be built at Mazagon Docks. 2. India-U.S. Defence Partnership 10-Year Defence Framework: Details: India and the U.S. are set to finalize a new 10-year defense partnership framework by the end of 2025, enhancing cooperation in defense sales, technology sharing, and procurement processes. F-35 Stealth Jets: Details: The U.S. plans to increase military sales to India, including discussions on supplying F-35 stealth fighter jets. Additional P-8I Aircraft: Details: India is expected to procure six more P-8I Maritime Patrol aircraft to enhance maritime surveillance capabilities. Javelin Anti-Tank Missiles and Stryker Vehicles: Details: Plans for co-production of Javelin missiles and Stryker vehicles in India are underway. 3. India-Philippines and Indonesia Defence Deals BrahMos Missiles: Deal Value: $375 million Details: The Philippines has agreed to purchase BrahMos missiles from India. Similar negotiations are ongoing with Indonesia. 4. India-Russia Defence Cooperation T-90 Tank Upgrades: Details: India plans to upgrade its T-90 tanks with 1350 horsepower engines, likely sourced from Russia.