Lca Tejas Engine Backlog
Aerospace

Lca Tejas Engine Backlog

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The LCA Tejas engine backlog has been a significant challenge in the production and deployment of India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has faced delays in receiving the necessary F404-IN20 engines from General Electric (GE), impacting the timely delivery of Tejas Mk1A aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF). This backlog has been attributed to various factors, including supply chain issues and production ramp-up challenges. As of early September 2025, the backlog has reached 26 units and is projected to climb to 30 by mid-2025, affecting the overall production schedule and operational readiness of the Tejas fleet.

Background of the Tejas Engine Program

The Tejas Mk1A is an advanced version of the indigenous light combat aircraft developed by HAL. In 2021, HAL signed a contract with GE to procure 99 F404-IN20 engines to power the Tejas Mk1A jets. The initial delivery schedule aimed for engines to be supplied starting in 2024. However, due to unforeseen supply chain issues, including delays from a South Korean supplier, the delivery timeline has been pushed back, leading to a significant backlog in engine availability.

Current Status of Engine Deliveries

As of March 2025, GE has delivered the first F404-IN20 engine to HAL, marking the commencement of engine supplies after a two-year delay. Despite this, the production rate remains below expectations. GE plans to deliver two engines per month until March 2026, but this pace is insufficient to meet the immediate needs of HAL’s production schedule. Consequently, HAL has had to rotate a limited number of engines among test aircraft, further delaying the induction of Tejas Mk1A into the IAF.

Impact on Tejas Mk1A Production

The engine backlog has directly affected HAL’s ability to meet its production targets for the Tejas Mk1A. Initially, HAL aimed to deliver 18 Tejas Mk1A jets by March 2025. However, due to the engine shortage, this target has been revised. Currently, HAL is set to deliver the first two Tejas Mk1A aircraft to the IAF in October 2025, contingent upon successful completion of final weapon firing trials scheduled for later in September. These trials are crucial for verifying the integration of advanced systems such as the Astra beyond visual range air-to-air missiles and the Elta ELM-2052 radar.

Production Facilities and Output

HAL operates multiple production lines for the Tejas program, including facilities in Bengaluru and Nashik. Despite these resources, the engine shortage has limited output. In 2025, HAL plans to produce 12 Tejas Mk1A aircraft, with three to four expected to be delivered from the Nashik facility. The Bengaluru facility is expected to contribute the remaining units. However, the ongoing engine supply issues pose a significant hurdle in achieving these production goals.

Strategic Measures and Future Outlook

To address the engine backlog, HAL and GE are exploring several strategic measures. These include

  • Enhanced Production CapacityGE is working to increase the production rate of F404-IN20 engines to meet the growing demand.
  • Alternative Engine OptionsHAL is considering the use of Category B F404 engines as a contingency plan to mitigate the impact of the engine shortage.
  • Supply Chain OptimizationBoth HAL and GE are collaborating to resolve supply chain issues and ensure timely delivery of components.
  • Government SupportThe Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and may intervene to expedite the procurement process.

While these measures are expected to alleviate the engine backlog over time, the immediate impact on Tejas Mk1A production remains a concern. The IAF’s operational readiness is contingent upon the timely induction of these aircraft, making the resolution of the engine supply issue a priority.

The LCA Tejas engine backlog has underscored the challenges associated with indigenous defense manufacturing and the complexities of global supply chains. While progress is being made to address the engine shortage, the situation highlights the need for robust planning and coordination between defense manufacturers and suppliers. As HAL and GE work towards resolving the backlog, the successful delivery and operational deployment of the Tejas Mk1A will be a testament to India’s growing capabilities in defense self-reliance.