MO Reviews Tejas Progress Amid GE Engine Delays
India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas programme is under intensified scrutiny by the Prime Minister’s Office due to continuous delays in deliveries of GE-supplied F404 engines. These hold-ups have slowed down aircraft handovers from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), raising concerns about the Indian Air Force’s squadron strength.
Tejas Delays
The central challenge stems from late shipments of GE F404 engines, which are crucial to the Tejas Mk 1A fleet. Supply constraints have disrupted HAL’s production schedule—only one engine was recently delivered, allowing assembly of only one aircraft.
PMO Review
As a result, the PMO has stepped in to closely monitor progress, signaling heightened urgency. This escalation follows earlier public rebukes from the Air Force leadership regarding missed delivery timelines, prompting HAL to commit to faster schedules.
HAL’s Production Plans
To counter engine shortfalls, HAL is exploring options to boost output. Plans include setting up a fourth assembly line in Nashik and targeting delivery of 16–24 aircraft in the upcoming fiscal year, depending on steady engine availability.
Engine Supply Status
GE has indicated it plans to deliver two F404 engines per month, a gradual ramp-up aimed at stabilising production. Meanwhile, India is working toward greater self-reliance by advancing the indigenous Kaveri engine and planning co-production of the F414 variant.
Strategic Stakes
The Tejas Mk 1A plays a vital role in strengthening India’s air combat capability amid regional security concerns. With the Air Force operating below its planned squadron numbers, resolving the engine supply bottleneck has become critical.
