The Tejas Mk1A programme is already running more than two years behind schedule (Image: HAL)

Fresh setback for Tejas Mk1A programme as sixth US engine develops snag

The development comes at a time when the Tejas Mk1A programme is already running more than two years behind schedule, raising concerns within the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Air Force (IAF). Sources told India Today that the seventh F404-IN20 engine is expected to be delivered to HAL next month.

by · India Today

In Short

  • HAL finds defect during routine post-delivery checks after May arrival
  • GE Aerospace is expected to send a technical team to inspect
  • If repairs fail locally, the manufacturer may need to replace engine

The delayed Tejas Mk1A programme has encountered another hurdle after a technical snag was detected in the sixth GE F404-IN20 engine supplied by US manufacturer GE Aerospace to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), sources told India Today.

The engine, received by HAL in May, developed a technical issue during post-delivery quality checks.

Sources said HAL has formally taken up the matter with GE Aerospace. A technical team from GE is expected to visit India to inspect the engine. If the defect is found to be rectifiable, repairs will be carried out in India. However, if the issue cannot be resolved locally, the engine may have to be replaced by the manufacturer.

The development comes at a time when the Tejas Mk1A programme is already running more than two years behind schedule, raising concerns within the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Air Force (IAF). Sources told India Today that the seventh F404-IN20 engine is expected to be delivered to HAL next month.

QUALITY ISSUE DETECTED DURING INSPECTION

According to sources, the snag was detected during routine post-delivery inspections and quality checks conducted by HAL after the engine arrived from the United States.

A senior HAL official had earlier indicated that such inspections are part of standard operating procedures and that any discrepancy detected after delivery is immediately flagged to GE Aerospace. Sources said the issue is believed to involve a technical defect noticed during inspection and is being treated as a routine engineering matter pending detailed examination.

Since April 2025, HAL has received six F404-IN20 engines from GE Aerospace. These engines are part of the Rs 5,375-crore contract signed in 2021 for the supply of 99 engines for the Tejas Mk1A fleet.

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE WARNS HAL OVER DELAYS

The latest engine issue comes amid mounting pressure on HAL over delays in the Tejas Mk1A programme. Sources told India Today that the Ministry of Defence has informed HAL that financial penalties may be imposed for failing to adhere to contractual delivery timelines.

The programme has slipped by more than two years, affecting the IAF's plans to induct new fighter aircraft. At a recent high-level review meeting, HAL was reportedly reminded of the penalty provisions under the contract.

Sources said the company is awaiting clarity from the government on the extent and nature of the proposed penalties. The delays have become a major concern for the IAF, which continues to grapple with declining squadron strength and is keen to induct the Tejas Mk1A fleet at the earliest.

MODIFICATIONS UNDERWAY; DELIVERIES POSSIBLE THIS YEAR

Sources told India Today that HAL is currently incorporating the modifications and improvements sought by the Indian Air Force. Another review of the programme is likely before September.

If the IAF is satisfied with the progress and the modifications undertaken, the first five Tejas Mk1A fighters could be handed over by the end of this year. A follow-up review involving Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, and HAL Chairman and Managing Director Ravi Kota is also expected later this year to assess progress and resolve pending issues.

FRESH HURDLE FOR FIGHTER PROGRAMME

The technical snag in the sixth GE engine marks another setback for the Tejas Mk1A programme, which has already been affected by global supply chain disruptions, delayed engine deliveries, and integration-related challenges.

The Tejas Mk1A remains central to the Indian Air Force's modernisation plans and efforts to arrest its declining fighter squadron strength. Any further delays could affect the IAF's operational preparedness as well as the broader indigenous fighter aircraft programme.

- Ends