UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 27th March 2025

Home UPSC Current Affairs After delays, GE Aerospace announces delivery of jet engines for Tejas LCA-Mk1A

After delays, GE Aerospace announces delivery of jet engines for Tejas LCA-Mk1A

Why in News?

American defence major GE Aerospace has delivered the first of 99 F404-IN20 aircraft engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for India’s Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A programme.

Background: Tejas Mk-1A and Engine Procurement

Tejas LCA is an indigenously developed, fourth-generation multirole fighter aircraft designed for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
In February 2021, the Defence Ministry signed a ₹48,000 crore contract with HAL for 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets.
The F404-IN20 engine, part of GE Aerospace’s F404 family, is tailored for India’s single-engine fighter programme, featuring higher thrust, a high-flow fan, and advanced turbine blades.

Reasons for Delay in Tejas Mk-1A Deliveries

The first Tejas Mk-1A jets were due in March 2023, but engine supply delays from GE Aerospace affected HAL’s schedule.

Production Restart Challenges: The F404-IN20 production line, shut down in 2016, had to be revived amid COVID-19 supply chain disruptions.
Supply Chain Bottlenecks: GE had to rebuild its global network, optimize manufacturing, and address delays.

Strategic Importance of Tejas for India’s Defence

Future of IAF’s Combat Fleet: With 97 more Tejas jets approved for procurement in November 2024, Tejas is set to become a cornerstone of the IAF’s fleet in the coming years.
Multi-role Capabilities: The Tejas is designed for air combat, offensive support, reconnaissance, and anti-ship operations.
Indigenous Defence Boost: Strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

GE Aerospace’s Commitment and Future Outlook

The delivery of the first F404-IN20 engine marks the revival of its production line after five years.
GE Aerospace is ramping up production with suppliers to ensure timely deliveries of the remaining 98 engines.
The company emphasizes safety, quality, and efficiency, working closely with HAL to enhance India’s fighter jet capabilities.

India’s Fighter Jet Fleet

Rafale Jets: India has inducted 36 Dassault Rafale fighters for air superiority missions.
Sukhoi Su-30MKI: Backbone of IAF’s fleet, with over 270 jets in service.
Indigenous Fighter Roadmap: Focus on reducing dependency on foreign aircraft and strengthening Make in India.

Conclusion

As India moves toward fifth-generation fighter jet development with projects like AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft), the success of Tejas and global collaborations will play a crucial role in shaping India’s defence future.