Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has received the fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine from GE Aerospace, as part of a 2021 contract under which GE Aerospace is to supply 99 engines to HAL.

HAL officials confirmed that the first two Tejas Mk1A aircraft will soon be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Additionally, at least 10 more units are prepared and are awaiting engines.

“We are all set for our first delivery to the Indian Air Force. We can start with two jets initially. Weapon firing is (already) ongoing. Plus, we have at least 10 additional units ready and waiting for engines," HAL officials told media.

The engines are part of a 2021 contract under which GE Aerospace will supply 99 F404 engines to HAL. HAL officials confirmed that production can be scaled up as more engines arrive.

Meanwhile, officials highlighted that flight tests from HAL’s Nashik facility are scheduled for later this month and weapon firing trials are already underway.

“Later this month, we have a flight test scheduled from our Nashik facility. We are fully prepared to ramp up production," the officials said.

The Nashik facility, inaugurated in April 2023 with an investment of over ₹150 crore, serves as HAL’s third production line for the Tejas Mk1A, complementing the two existing lines in Bengaluru. The Nashik plant is designed to produce eight aircraft annually, contributing to HAL’s goal of delivering 24 Tejas Mk1A units per year starting in 2027.

Source: News18