GE Aerospace has handed over the fifth F404-IN20 jet engine to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) as part of the ongoing order placed in 2021 for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A programme. The company confirmed the development on Friday, noting that production schedules remain on track.
A spokesperson for GE Aerospace said the firm continues to work closely with HAL to maintain a clear line of sight for F404 engine production timelines. The F404-IN20 engine powers India’s LCA Mk1A fighter jets, manufactured by HAL.
This latest delivery follows the fourth F404-IN20 engine, which was handed over in October this year under the same 2021 order. HAL has also signed a separate agreement for 113 F404-IN20 engines, along with a support package, to execute the larger 97-aircraft LCA Mk1A programme.
In a post on X, HAL said it entered into the agreement with General Electric on 7 November 2025. According to HAL, deliveries of these engines will begin in 2027 and continue until 2032. The contract for 97 LCA Mk1A aircraft was finalised in September 2025.
In another recent development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the third production line for the LCA Tejas Mk1A and the second production line for the HTT-40 trainer aircraft at HAL’s Nashik facility in October.
GE Aerospace last month also announced a USD 14 million investment to expand capacity at its Pune manufacturing facility as it completes a decade of operations. This investment follows the USD 30 million announced last year and will support upgraded manufacturing processes, automation, and advanced engine component production.
