India is expediting deliveries of US-made F404 engines for its Tejas Mk-1A fighter jets, with a follow-on order for additional units expected to be finalised by the end of August. The push comes amid ongoing defence talks between New Delhi and Washington, even after US President Donald Trump raised tariffs to 50 per cent.
According to defence sources, General Electric has so far delivered two engines after a delay of over a year, with a third due this month. GE has committed to supplying one engine a month, increasing to two per month from October. The current order covers 99 engines, while the follow-up order would support 97 more Tejas Mk-1A fighters already approved by the Ministry of Defence.
In parallel, technical negotiations have concluded for F414 engines to power the upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and Tejas Mk-2 fighters, both to be manufactured in India. A final deal for the F414s could take a few more months.
Government sources dismissed reports suggesting India would pause arms and aircraft purchases from the US, calling them “false and fabricated.” Talks remain active for six additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft for the Indian Navy, and a US delegation is scheduled to visit India next month for procurement discussions.
Beyond the Tejas programme, deliberations are underway for the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender. The Indian Air Force has reportedly recommended the Rafale, already in service with the IAF and Navy, though other contenders include Russia’s Su-35, additional US fighters, and Swedish models. There has been no official interest in the US F-35.
With MiG squadrons retiring and fighter strength projected to drop to 29 squadrons, India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative continues to prioritise indigenous production while supplementing capabilities through selective foreign acquisitions. Following Operation Sindoor, procurement processes have been accelerated to meet operational needs.
(With Inputs from India Today)
