GE Aerospace delivered its 4th F404-IN20 engine to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on September 30, 2025, marking a milestone in the $716 million contract signed in 2021. The engines will power the Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, a vital upgrade to India’s indigenous defence capabilities.
The latest delivery represents progress in the contract for 99 engines meant for 83 Tejas Mk1A aircraft. Although the agreement was signed in 2021, actual deliveries began only in March 2025 after a 2-year delay. The hold-up reflects ongoing supply chain disruptions that have affected global defence procurement, including Indo-US collaborations.
The F404-IN20 is a proven, high-performance engine known for its reliability and is a critical component for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A variant, which features enhanced avionics and combat capabilities compared to earlier versions.
Read More: India-US to Finalise $1 Billion GE-404 Engine Deal by October: HAL Chairman!
The F404-IN20 engines are specially configured for Indian requirements and offer improved thrust and durability. Their integration with the Tejas Mk1A is essential for India's defence self-reliance goals under the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiative. With 4 engines now delivered, HAL can continue limited series production while scaling toward full operational capability.
This engine delivery also underlines the evolving US-India defence partnership, though the initial delays underscore lingering logistical and geopolitical challenges. The collaboration is expected to deepen with upcoming co-production plans for Tejas Mk2 engines, aimed at expanding local manufacturing and technology transfer.
On October 1, 2025, Hindustan Aeronautics share price opened at ₹4,732.00 on NSE, below the previous close of ₹4,746.50. During the day, it surged to ₹4,817.40 and dipped to ₹4,721.10. The stock is trading at ₹4,781.80 as of 10:06 AM. The stock registered a moderate gain of 0.74%.
Over the past week, it has moved up by 0.14%, over the past month, it has moved up by 7.43%, and over the past 3 months, it has declined by 2.33%.
GE Aerospace’s 4th F404-IN20 engine delivery to HAL signals a crucial step in fulfilling the $716 million Tejas Mk1A engine deal. Despite initial setbacks, the project is now on track to support India’s defence aviation goals and deepen strategic ties with the US.
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Published on: Oct 1, 2025, 12:27 PM IST
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