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HAL Inks $1 Billion Deal with GE Aerospace for 113 Jet Engines to Power LCA Mk 1A.

National | Dated: 08 Nov 2025

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a $1 billion deal with the American firm GE Aerospace for the procurement of 113 F404 jet engines and a support package. These engines are intended to power the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark 1A fighters, which are set to replace the Indian Air Force's ageing MiG-21 fleet. This agreement strengthens the defense partnership between India and the US and is crucial for maintaining the operational readiness and indigenization drive of India's fighter jet program. Deliveries are expected to span from 2027 to 2032.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • HAL signed the deal with GE Aerospace for 113 F404 engines.
  • The engines will power the indigenous LCA Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets.
  • The deal is valued at approximately $1 billion and is for the 97 LCA Mk 1A program.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • The deal follows negotiations between HAL and GE on technology transfer for the more powerful F414 engines (for LCA Mk2).
  • The F404 engine provides the necessary thrust and reliability for the Tejas platform.
  • The LCA Mk 1A has a higher indigenous content than the previous Mk 1 version.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which type of jet engine is being procured from GE Aerospace by HAL?

Correct Answer: F404

🚀 Quick Recap:

About LCA Tejas Mk 1A

  • (i) Class: 4.5 Generation, Multi-role fighter (ii) Manufacturer: HAL
  • (iii) Purpose: To replace the MiG-21 fleet (iv) Key Feature: Equipped with AESA Radar.