Overview

• HAL has confirmed receipt of its second GE-404 engine, addressing the supply shortfall that delayed earlier Tejas Mk-1A production targets.
• The state aerospace company anticipates receiving 12 GE-404 units by the end of the current financial year, setting the stage for an annual build rate approaching 24 aircraft.
• HAL refuted reports of negotiations with alternative engine manufacturers and reiterated its exclusive partnership with General Electric.
• The IAF’s firm order of 83 Mk-1A fighters is bolstered by a Defence Ministry-approved plan for 97 more jets under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
• The Tejas Mk-1A comes equipped with advanced avionics, an AESA radar and upgraded combat systems as part of India’s push for indigenous defence capability.