Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has reaffirmed that the TEJAS MK-2 indigenous fighter jet is being specifically designed around the GE F414 turbofan engine, dismissing recent speculation about exploring alternative French-made engines.
HAL Chairman DK Sunil stated that the TEJAS MK-2’s airframe, weight distribution, cooling systems, and thrust requirements are all optimised for the F414 platform. “Any consideration of another engine would require extensive redesigns and could delay prototype rollouts and induction plans,” he explained, highlighting HAL’s confidence in the proven reliability of GE’s turbofan technology.
Addressing recent reports of potential French propulsion solutions, Sunil clarified that these claims are unfounded. He added that the F414 engine’s long-standing integration with Indian fighter programs ensures seamless performance, enabling HAL to maintain timelines for the aircraft’s development and induction.
On concerns regarding international trade tensions, including U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, HAL emphasised that Indo-U.S. defence collaboration remains unaffected. The existing agreement ensures a steady supply of F414 engines for the TEJAS MK-2 and lays the foundation for local manufacturing partnerships under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The statement reinforces India’s strategy of self-reliance in combat aircraft development while leveraging proven international technology, ensuring operational reliability and long-term supply security for the Indian Air Force.
