India’s public-sector aircraft maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a $1 billion (₹8,900 crore) deal with US aerospace major General Electric (GE) to supply 113 jet engines for the Tejas Mk-1A fighter jets.
The engines will be delivered between 2027 and 2032, adding to an earlier 2021 order for 99 engines. HAL officials said 11 Tejas jets are ready, including four already fitted with GE engines, and the company aims to deliver 10 aircraft to the Indian Air Force by March next year.
The Tejas programme, which had faced delays due to engine shortages, weapon-integration trials, and radar certification, is expected to gain momentum with this agreement. The new supply will help boost Tejas production and strengthen India’s airpower at a time when the IAF’s fighter strength is below target.
The deal also marks a boost in India–U.S. defence cooperation, reflecting growing trust and shared strategic interests despite past trade frictions.
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