Indian Air Force Awaits Tejas Jets Amid GE Engine Delays

New Delhi, Jun 24 (PTI) - The Indian Air Force is set to receive at least six Tejas Light Combat Aircraft by March 2026, as revealed by the chief of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), which is responsible for manufacturing these state-of-the-art fighter jets. The delays in delivery have been attributed to GE Aerospace not meeting deadlines for supplying its engines.

The delivery setbacks for the LCA Mk-1A variant have been a significant concern, with Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, the Chief of Air Staff, addressing the issue publicly.

HAL's Chairman and Managing Director, D K Sunil, clarified that the delay arose solely from the inability of the US firm GE Aerospace to provide the F404 engines on schedule.

In an exclusive interview with PTI Videos, Sunil disclosed that GE Aerospace is slated to deliver 12 engines within the current fiscal year, which will enable the distribution of jets to the IAF.

"Every company faces its share of criticisms," Sunil acknowledged. "In the instance of the LCA Mark 1A, we have constructed the aircraft. Presently, we have six aircraft ready to go."

"But engine deliveries from GE Aerospace have been forthcoming. They were supposed to deliver in 2023, but we've only received one engine so far," he elaborated.

Initially, the delay from GE was due to production schedules falling behind during the Covid pandemic, combined with the exit of several senior engineers, leading to extensive supply chain issues.

According to Sunil, technical complications with GE Aerospace have been resolved, and HAL is on track to receive 12 engines by March 2026.

"I assure you that as of today, six aircraft are prepped. We haven’t slackened. We are assembling these aircraft and aim to deliver them this fiscal," Sunil stated.

HAL plans to manufacture 16 jets in the coming year, contingent upon consistent engine supply from GE Aerospace.

In February 2021, the defense ministry inked a Rs 48,000 crore deal with HAL for 83 Tejas MK-1A jets meant for the IAF.

The ministry is also on course to procure 97 more LCA Mk-1As at an approximate cost of Rs 67,000 crore.

The Mk-1A, a single-engine aircraft, is set to replace the IAF's MiG-21 fighters.

With the IAF's fighter squadrons dwindled to 31, far below the officially approved strength of 42, the induction of these warplanes is crucial.

Tejas is a versatile single-engine aircraft, capable of operating in high-threat aerial scenarios.

Designed for air defense, maritime reconnaissance, and strike roles, it stands as a pivotal asset.

Sunil highlighted the Tejas Mk1A as a world-class fighter, equipped with cutting-edge radar, electronic warfare systems, and a plethora of missiles.

"With a full range of avionics and weaponry, it becomes a formidable platform. It will greatly benefit our Air Force," he expressed.

Sunil also noted that several countries have shown interest in the Tejas jet, and HAL is in dialogue with them. "We are in talks with numerous nations about Tejas. I hope for substantial progress soon," he mentioned, opting not to delve into specifics.

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