Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has ordered 99 F404 engines from GE Aviation to propel the LCA Tejas on August 17, 2021. 

The financial value of the deal is worth INR 5,375 crores ($716 million), including the cost price and the support services for the engines from GE Aviation. 

“This is the largest-ever deal and the purchase order placed by HAL for LCA,” said R. Madhavan, Chief Managing Director of HAL. 

Madhavan further added that the company is trying to work closely with GE Aviation to support the LCA’s export potential and supply spares to the global supply chain of GE 404 engines.

The General Electric F404, also known as GE 404, is a turbojet engine used in numerous military aircraft, including McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, and Northrop F-20 Tigershark. 

“The F404 family of engines has proven itself in operations all over the world, and we have committed to deliver all 99 engines and support services by 2029”, said Chris Cyr, Vice President of GE Aviation.

Cyr indicated that GE Aviation was ready to extend the cooperation further with the new order from HAL.

The engine order would facilitate the delivery of the 83 LCAs commissioned by the Indian Air Force and help manufacture GE F414 engines for the upcoming LCA Mk II program.