India set to buy 113 GE-404 engines for Tejas Mk1 jets under $1B US deal

India is on the brink of a major leap toward self-reliance in defence aviation. After recently partnering with France’s Safran to co-develop next-generation fighter jet engines, New Delhi is now preparing to seal another landmark deal—this time with the United States.

According to sources, India is close to finalising a contract worth $1 billion with General Electric (GE) for the supply of 113 GE-404 engines that will power the indigenous LCA Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets.

This move ensures uninterrupted production and strengthens India’s resolve to modernize its fighter fleet while reducing dependency on ageing aircraft.

GE-404 Engines to Power India’s Tejas Fleet

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has already signed an agreement with GE for 99 GE-404 engines to power the first batch of 83 Tejas Mark 1A aircraft ordered by the Indian Air Force (IAF).

With the new deal for 113 additional engines, HAL’s total requirement of 212 engines will be secured, aligning perfectly with production targets.

Officials confirmed that negotiations are in the final stages and the agreement is expected to be signed by September 2025. Currently, GE is supplying India with two engines per month, maintaining steady delivery commitments.

HAL’s Production Roadmap

HAL is working to deliver the first batch of 83 Tejas Mark 1A fighters by 2029–30, followed by the next 97 aircraft by 2033–34. This sustained production cycle will be vital in replacing the IAF’s retiring MiG-21 squadrons, which once formed the backbone of India’s fighter fleet but are now outdated and gradually being phased out.

Features of the LCA Tejas Mark 1A

The Tejas Mark 1A is a single-engine, multi-role combat aircraft designed to operate in high-threat environments. Key capabilities include:

• Air Defence & Air Superiority – Effective for interception and combat air patrol.
• Strike Roles – Equipped for precision ground attacks.
• Maritime Reconnaissance – Capable of coastal defence and naval operations.
• Modern Avionics – Advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and weapon integration.

The Tejas offers India a versatile, lightweight fighter tailored for regional threats while being significantly more cost-effective than imported alternatives.

The GE-404 Engine: Reliable Power for Tejas

The GE-404 engine, developed by General Electric, is renowned for its proven reliability and performance. It delivers the thrust required for the Tejas to perform across multiple mission profiles, from dogfights to strike operations. Its compact design and adaptability make it an ideal choice for light combat aircraft, ensuring high performance with manageable operating costs.

Looking Ahead: GE-414 Engines for Tejas Mk2 and AMCA

Beyond the Tejas Mark 1A program, HAL is also in discussions with GE for a separate deal covering 200 GE-414 engines. These advanced powerplants will be used in the upcoming Tejas Mark 2 and India’s futuristic Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Estimated at $1.5 billion, this deal is expected to include an 80% transfer of technology, further strengthening India’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

Conclusion: A Strategic Step in India’s Aviation Journey

The proposed $1 billion GE-404 engine deal underscores India’s commitment to expanding its indigenous Tejas fleet while ensuring operational readiness of the IAF.

Coupled with recent partnerships like the Safran engine program, these efforts highlight India’s twin strategy: securing foreign technology where needed, while simultaneously building self-reliance for the future.

If finalized by September, this agreement will mark yet another milestone in India’s journey toward a modern, self-sufficient air combat capability.

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