GE Aerospace has announced plans to establish a dedicated engine repair facility in India for the HAL Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, marking a significant step towards enhancing operational readiness of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The facility will focus on the maintenance and repair of F404-IN20 engines, which power the Tejas Mk1A aircraft.
Boost to Self-Reliance and Faster Turnaround
The plant will be owned and operated by the IAF, while GE Aerospace will provide technical expertise, training, support personnel, and specialised equipment.
This move is expected to:
- Eliminate dependence on overseas repair facilities
- Significantly reduce turnaround time for engine servicing
- Improve fleet availability and combat readiness
Addressing Delays in Tejas Programme
The development comes amid ongoing delays in engine deliveries. Under a 2021 contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), GE was to supply 99 F404-IN20 engines. However, only a handful have been delivered so far, causing delays in the induction of Tejas Mk1A jets.
Originally scheduled for 2024, deliveries of the Tejas Mk1A are now expected to begin around mid-2026.
Strategic Importance for IAF
The Tejas programme is crucial for the IAF as it replaces ageing fleets such as MiG-21 and Jaguar aircraft. With squadron strength currently below desired levels, timely induction and maintenance of indigenous fighters are critical.
Strengthening ‘Make in India’ in Defence
The new repair facility aligns with India’s push for defence indigenisation and self-reliance, ensuring better lifecycle support for domestically produced platforms.
The initiative is expected to enhance India’s aerospace ecosystem and provide long-term support to the Tejas programme, which remains a cornerstone of the country’s defence modernisation efforts.
