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India is set to receive a steady supply of its domestically produced Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA) powered by GE engines in the upcoming fiscal year, following a nearly 12-month delay, a senior government official confirmed on Sunday.
The country’s state-run aerospace manufacturer, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), is expected to deliver between 16 and 24 aircraft in the fiscal year beginning April 2025, thanks to the now-stabilized production of the engines supplied by GE Aerospace, the official stated.
Supply Chain Woes Delayed Engine Deliveries
Initially, deliveries of the GE engines were scheduled to begin in March 2024. However, sources within the Ministry of Defence revealed that supply chain constraints faced by GE had led to delays beyond the 65 engines that had already been delivered as of 2023.
This delay came at a crucial time for the Indian Air Force (IAF), which is working to strengthen its fighter squadrons. The IAF’s current fleet has dropped to 31 squadrons, far below its target of 42, even as neighboring China aggressively expands its own air force capabilities.
Production Line Stabilization Brings Optimism
Despite these setbacks, India's Defence Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar shared an optimistic outlook ahead of the Aero India 2025 aerospace exhibition, which kicks off on Monday in Bengaluru.
"The good news is that now the production line has stabilized—both at HAL and at GE, the engine manufacturer," Kumar told reporters on the eve of the event.
He further emphasized that the Indian government is working closely with GE Aerospace to ensure a smooth supply chain for the engines moving forward.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger Fighter Jet Fleet
India’s collaboration with GE Aerospace is expected to streamline engine deliveries in the 2025-26 fiscal year and beyond, allowing HAL to meet its planned production targets.
"We are working with our American partner GE to ensure that their supply chain is also streamlined. This gives us confidence that we will be able to maintain the required production pace," Kumar added.
As India seeks to modernize its defense forces and counter regional threats, the timely delivery of Tejas fighter jets will play a crucial role in bolstering the Indian Air Force and maintaining strategic air superiority.
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