Defense & Military
HAL Receives Fourth GE F404 IN20 Engine for Tejas Fighter Program
HAL receives fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine, advancing India’s Tejas Mark 1A fighter and defense self-reliance amid supply chain challenges.
The delivery of the fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) marks a pivotal moment in India’s ongoing quest for aerospace self-reliance and the modernization of its air defense capabilities. This event is part of a $716 million contract signed in 2021 for 99 engines and reflects the gradual progress made despite significant Supply-Chain disruptions that have affected the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark 1A program. As the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces the pressing need to replace aging MiG-21 squadrons, the Tejas project and the timely delivery of these engines are increasingly important for both operational readiness and the country’s broader defense Manufacturing ambitions.
HAL expects to receive a total of 12 engines by the end of the current financial year, with plans to ramp up production to 30 aircraft annually by 2026-27. This milestone is not only a technical achievement but also a strategic step toward reducing India’s dependence on foreign defense imports. The broader implications extend to India’s “Make in India” initiative, rising defense budgets, and the country’s evolving role in global aerospace supply chains amid widespread industry disruptions.
The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program is one of India’s most ambitious indigenous defense initiatives, with roots tracing back to the 1980s. The goal was to replace the IAF’s aging fleet of Soviet-era fighters and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, a strategic vulnerability highlighted by decades of arms import challenges. The Tejas program’s development journey reflects the complexities and persistence required for indigenous aerospace advancement, especially in a sector as sophisticated as military aviation.
The GE F404 engine family was chosen for the Tejas after extensive collaboration between General Electric and India’s Aeronautical Development Agency, starting in the 1980s. The engine was formally selected in 2004, following rigorous evaluation of available options and India’s long-term strategic objectives. This partnership laid the groundwork for gradual technology transfer and knowledge sharing, crucial for the program’s maturation.
Initial procurement included 10 F404-F2J3 engines for technology demonstrators and prototypes, followed by additional contracts in 2004 and 2007 for 17 and 24 engines respectively. By 2016, 75 engines (both F2J3 and IN20 variants) had been delivered, supporting the transition from development to operational service. As of mid-2025, the IAF operates two Tejas Mark 1 squadrons, with 38 of 40 ordered aircraft delivered and the final two trainers expected soon. This operational status signals the program’s steady progress and its role in filling the capability gap left by the recent retirement of the MiG-21 squadrons.
“The retirement of the MiG-21 after more than six decades of service underscores the urgency and significance of the Tejas program for India’s air defense needs.”
The F404-GE-IN20 engine is a highly advanced adaptation of GE’s proven F404 family, designed to meet the specific requirements of the Tejas Mark 1A. This variant is the highest thrust version, producing up to 85 kN (19,000 lbf) with afterburner, compared to the baseline’s 78.7 kN. It also features increased airflow (153 lb/sec vs. 146 lb/sec) and a higher pressure ratio (28:1 vs. 26:1), contributing to improved thrust and fuel efficiency.
Advanced materials such as single-crystal turbine blades and ceramic matrix composites, along with enhanced cooling systems, enable reliable performance in India’s hot and humid conditions. The Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system, adapted from GE’s F414 engine, provides precise digital control, optimizing fuel efficiency and enabling predictive maintenance through in-flight engine condition monitoring. This reduces unscheduled maintenance and increases fleet availability.
The F404-IN20’s combat-proven heritage, over 13 million flight hours on platforms like the F/A-18 Hornet, offers confidence in its reliability and performance. The engine’s six-module architecture ensures ease of maintenance and component interchangeability, while its unrestricted throttle response and afterburner stability provide the responsive power required for modern air combat. These features, combined with the Tejas’s advanced Avionics, position the Mark 1A as a competitive platform in the global fighter market. “The F404-IN20 engine’s unrestricted performance, advanced materials, and digital controls make it a cornerstone of the Tejas Mark 1A’s operational capabilities and India’s defense self-reliance efforts.”
The F404-IN20 program has faced significant supply chain disruptions, reflecting broader vulnerabilities in the global aerospace sector. The original 2021 Contracts for 99 engines was delayed by nearly two years due to issues such as the closure and subsequent restart of GE’s production line, and problems with a South Korean component supplier. These disruptions mirror a 35% increase in aerospace supply chain disruptions globally between 2023 and 2024.
Restarting the GE production line in Boston after a five-year hiatus required coordination with suppliers, workforce retraining, and quality system revalidation. The South Korean supplier issue highlighted the risks of single-source dependencies in complex supply chains, where lead times for critical components can extend to 18-24 months. The recovery plan now targets the delivery of 12 engines in the current financial year, with a steady rate of 20 engines annually from 2026 onward.
These supply chain issues have affected HAL’s production planning, with several Tejas Mark 1A airframes ready but awaiting engines. The mismatch between aircraft readiness and engine availability has led to inventory and resource allocation challenges. Such disruptions not only delay deliveries but also increase costs and can impact the IAF’s operational readiness. Broader industry data indicates that about 30% of aerospace companies have experienced cost impacts of 1% to over 5% due to supply chain and regulatory challenges.
The F404-IN20 engine program is a major financial undertaking for India, with the initial $716 million contract likely to be followed by an additional Orders for 113 engines, potentially bringing the total value to $1.7 billion. This investment is a cornerstone of India’s broader defense modernization strategy, which has seen the defense budget rise from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to ₹6.81 lakh crore in 2025-26.
Beyond procurement, the program supports India’s goal of building a robust indigenous defense industry. Defense production reached ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, a 174% increase from a decade earlier. The Ministry of Defence has prioritized domestic contracts, with 177 of 193 contracts in 2024-25 awarded to Indian industry. The Tejas program’s increasing indigenous content, targeted to exceed 70%, and the establishment of local maintenance and overhaul facilities further reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
The F404-IN20’s improved fuel efficiency and longer maintenance intervals (over 1,000 flight hours between overhauls) are expected to yield operational savings of 15-20% compared to previous engines. Additionally, the program lays the groundwork for technology transfer in future projects, such as the F414 engine for the Tejas Mark 2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. The Tejas’s export potential, supported by HAL’s design and software customization capabilities, could further enhance India’s defense sector revenues.
“India’s defense production has increased by 174% in a decade, and the Tejas program’s growing indigenous content exemplifies the country’s shift toward self-reliance and global competitiveness.”
HAL’s production strategy for the Tejas Mark 1A involves a distributed model, with manufacturing lines in Bangalore and Nashik, and significant contributions from private sector partners. This approach aims to achieve the target of 30 aircraft annually by 2026-27, a significant scale-up from current rates. Private companies like Alpha Tocol Engineering Services and VEM Technologies are supplying major airframe components, increasing the resilience and capacity of the supply chain.
The engine supply schedule remains the primary constraint on production scaling. HAL’s plans are predicated on GE delivering 12 engines in 2025-26 and 20 engines annually thereafter. The IAF’s long-term procurement plan for 352 Tejas aircraft (including Mark 1A and Mark 2 variants) provides a stable demand base, supporting investment in capacity expansion and technology upgrades. The success of the Mark 1A program will influence the development of the Tejas Mark 2 (with F414 engines) and the AMCA, India’s planned fifth-generation stealth fighter. Lessons learned from current supply chain and production challenges will inform future projects. Additionally, the export potential of the Tejas, enabled by HAL’s customization capabilities, could open new markets and further justify Investments in production capacity.
The F404-IN20 program’s challenges reflect systemic issues in the global aerospace supply chain. Disruptions increased by 35% from 2023 to 2024, with factory fires and labor strikes (notably the Boeing machinists’ strike) among the leading causes. The aerospace industry’s reliance on single-source suppliers and just-in-time inventory practices has heightened vulnerability to such events.
Labor disruptions surged by 33% in 2024, with the Boeing strike alone costing $9.7 billion and causing significant production delays. Material shortages, especially of steel and titanium, and regulatory compliance requirements have further constrained production. At least one-third of aerospace companies report being unprepared for planned production rate increases due to capacity and workforce limitations.
To mitigate these risks, nearly a quarter of companies are adopting regionalized supply chains, balancing global sourcing with local redundancy. Regulatory compliance, particularly related to sustainability, adds further complexity and cost. The lessons from the F404-IN20 supply chain disruptions underscore the need for greater resilience, redundancy, and strategic planning in both Indian and global aerospace manufacturing.
“Aerospace supply chain disruptions rose 35% in a single year, highlighting the need for resilience and strategic risk management in defense manufacturing.”
The delivery of the fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine to HAL is more than a technical milestone; it symbolizes India’s determined pursuit of defense self-reliance and the modernization of its aerospace capabilities. The journey has been marked by significant challenges, particularly in supply chain management, but also by steady progress in indigenous production, technology transfer, and strategic partnership building.
As India continues to expand its defense manufacturing base and aims for ambitious production targets, the lessons learned from the F404-IN20 program will shape future projects and enhance the country’s position in the global aerospace sector. The successful integration of public and private sector capabilities, combined with a focus on resilience and innovation, will be crucial for sustaining this momentum and achieving long-term strategic objectives.
Q: What is the significance of the F404-IN20 engine for the Tejas Mark 1A? Q: Why were there delays in engine deliveries? Q: How does the Tejas program support India’s defense manufacturing goals? Q: What are the future prospects for the Tejas and its engines?
HAL Receives Fourth GE-F404-IN20 Engine: Critical Milestone in India’s Indigenous Fighter Aircraft Program
Background and Historical Context of the Tejas Program
The F404-IN20 Engine: Technical Specifications and Strategic Importance
Supply Chain Challenges and Delivery Timeline Analysis
Financial and Strategic Implications for India’s Defense Sector
Future Outlook and Production Capacity Planning
Global Aerospace Supply Chain Context and Industry Challenges
Conclusion
FAQ
A: The F404-IN20 is a high-thrust, advanced variant of GE’s F404 engine, offering improved performance, reliability, and digital controls. It is critical for the operational capabilities of the Tejas Mark 1A and supports India’s drive for defense self-reliance.
A: Delays were caused by global supply chain disruptions, including the closure and restart of GE’s production line and issues with a South Korean component supplier. These reflect broader challenges in the aerospace industry.
A: The program increases indigenous content, builds local manufacturing and maintenance capabilities, and supports technology transfer. It is a key part of India’s strategy to reduce reliance on foreign imports and grow its defense sector.
A: Future prospects include expanded production for the IAF, development of the more advanced Tejas Mark 2, potential exports, and ongoing technology transfer initiatives with GE and other partners.
Sources
Photo Credit: The Economic Times
Defense & Military
South Korea Grounds AH-1S Cobra Helicopters After Fatal Crash
South Korea suspends AH-1S Cobra helicopter operations following a fatal training crash amid delays in fleet replacement.
This article summarizes reporting by South China Morning Post and official statements from the South Korean military.
The South Korean military has ordered an immediate suspension of all AH-1S Cobra helicopters operations following a fatal accident on Monday morning. According to reporting by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the crash occurred in Gapyeong and resulted in the deaths of two crew members. The grounding order remains in effect pending a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the incident.
The tragedy has renewed scrutiny over the Republic of Korea Army’s aging fleet of attack helicopters, many of which have surpassed their original intended service life. Military officials confirmed that the aircraft involved was conducting training maneuvers at the time of the accident.
The crash took place at approximately 11:04 AM KST on February 9, 2026. The aircraft, an AH-1S Cobra operated by the Army’s 15th Aviation Group, went down on a riverbank in Gapyeong County, located roughly 55 kilometers northeast of Seoul.
According to military briefings, the two crew members on board, both Warrant Officers, were recovered from the wreckage in cardiac arrest. They were transported to a nearby hospital but were subsequently pronounced dead.
Preliminary reports indicate the crew was engaged in “emergency landing procedures.” In rotorcraft aviation, this typically refers to autorotation training, a high-risk maneuver where pilots simulate engine failure to glide the helicopter safely to the ground using the energy stored in the spinning rotors. While standard for pilot certification, autorotation requires precise handling, particularly during the final “flare” phase near the ground.
The AH-1S Cobra has been a staple of South Korea’s anti-tank capabilities since its introduction between 1988 and 1991. However, the fleet is widely considered obsolete by modern standards. Estimates suggest the Army still operates between 55 and 70 of these airframes.
According to defense procurement plans previously released by the government, the AH-1S fleet was scheduled for retirement by 2024. The continued operation of these helicopters in 2026 points to significant delays in the full deployment of replacement platforms, specifically the AH-64E Apache Guardian and the domestically produced KAI LAH (Light Armed Helicopter). This is not the first time the aging Cobra fleet has faced safety questions. In August 2018, the fleet was grounded after a catastrophic mechanical failure in Yongin. During that incident, a main rotor blade separated from the fuselage during takeoff, leading to a crash landing. That failure was later attributed to a defect in the rotor strap assembly, highlighting the structural fatigue inherent in airframes that have been in service for nearly four decades.
The Risks of Legacy Training Modernization Pressure
South Korea Grounds AH-1S Cobra Fleet Following Fatal Training Crash
Incident Details and Casualties
Fleet Status and Delayed Retirement
Previous Safety Concerns
AirPro News Analysis
The crash in Gapyeong underscores a critical dilemma facing modernizing militaries: the necessity of training on “high-risk” airframes while awaiting delayed replacements. Autorotation training is inherently dangerous even in modern aircraft; performing these stress-inducing maneuvers on helicopters approaching 40 years of service compounds the risk profile significantly.
We anticipate this incident will accelerate political pressure on the Ministry of National Defense to expedite the retirement of the remaining AH-1S Cobras. While South Korea has become a major exporter of advanced defense hardware, such as the K2 tank and FA-50 light combat aircraft, the domestic reliance on Vietnam-era derivative helicopters creates a stark capability gap. The tragedy may force the military to prioritize the delivery of the KAI LAH to prevent further loss of life among aircrews operating obsolete equipment.
Sources
Photo Credit: Reuters
Defense & Military
Grid Aero Raises $20M to Deploy Long-Range Autonomous Airlift
Grid Aero secures $20M Series A funding to develop the “Lifter-Lite,” a long-range autonomous aircraft for military logistics in the Indo-Pacific.
This article is based on an official press release from Grid Aero.
Grid Aero, a California-based aerospace Startups, announced on January 26, 2026, that it has raised $20 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Bison Ventures and Geodesic Capital, with participation from Stony Lonesome Group, Alumni Ventures, Ubiquity Ventures, Calibrate Ventures, and Commonweal Ventures. The capital will be used to transition the company’s “Lifter-Lite” autonomous aircraft from prototype to a fielded platform, specifically targeting military logistics challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
Unlike many entrants in the autonomous aviation sector that focus on electric propulsion, Grid Aero has developed a clean-sheet, conventional-fuel aircraft designed to address the “tyranny of distance.” By utilizing standard Jet-A fuel and a rugged fixed-wing design, the company aims to provide a heavy-lift solution capable of operating without traditional runway infrastructure.
According to the company’s announcement, the flagship “Lifter-Lite” aircraft prioritizes range and payload capacity over novel propulsion methods. The system is engineered to carry between 1,000 and 8,000 pounds of cargo, with a maximum range of up to 2,000 miles. This range capability allows for trans-oceanic flights, such as routes from Guam to Japan, which are critical for Pacific theater operations.
The aircraft utilizes a conventional turboprop engine, a strategic choice intended to ensure compatibility with existing military fuel supply chains. The design features Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities, enabling operations from dirt strips, highways, or damaged runways where standard cargo planes cannot land.
Grid Aero was founded in 2024 by CEO Arthur Dubois and CTO Chinmay Patel. Dubois previously served as Director of Engineering at Xwing and was an early engineer at Joby Aviation. Patel, who holds a PhD in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Stanford, brings experience from Zee Aero (Kitty Hawk). The leadership team emphasizes a shift away from the “electric hype” of the urban air mobility sector toward pragmatic, physics-based solutions for defense logistics.
“We are building the pickup truck of the skies, a rugged, affordable, and autonomous logistics network capable of operating in austere environments.”
, Grid Aero Mission Statement
The Investments from Geodesic Capital, a firm known for fostering U.S.-Japan collaboration, highlights the strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific. The Department of Defense (DoD) has identified logistics as a primary vulnerability in potential conflicts where traditional supply lines may be contested. Grid Aero positions its technology as an “attritable” asset, low-cost, unmanned systems that can be deployed in volume without risking human crews. The Shift to Pragmatic Propulsion
While the broader autonomous aviation market has largely chased the promise of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) technologies, Grid Aero’s successful Series A raise signals a growing investor appetite for pragmatic, mission-specific engineering. Electric propulsion currently struggles with energy density, limiting most eVTOLs to ranges under 200 miles, insufficient for the vast distances of the Pacific.
By opting for a conventional turboprop engine, Grid Aero bypasses the battery bottleneck entirely. This decision allows the “Lifter-Lite” to integrate immediately into existing defense infrastructure (using Jet-A fuel) while offering ranges that are an order of magnitude higher than its electric competitors. For military buyers, the ability to repair an aluminum airframe in the field is often more valuable than the theoretical efficiency of composite electric platforms.
What is the primary use case for Grid Aero’s aircraft?
The aircraft is designed for “contested logistics,” delivering heavy cargo (1,000–8,000 lbs) over long ranges (up to 2,000 miles) to areas without standard runways, such as islands or forward operating bases.
Why does Grid Aero use conventional fuel instead of electric power?
Conventional Jet-A fuel offers significantly higher energy density than current battery technology, enabling the long ranges required for operations in the Pacific. It also ensures compatibility with existing military logistics chains.
Who are the lead investors in this round? The Series A round was led by Bison Ventures, a deep-tech VC firm, and Geodesic Capital, which specializes in U.S.-Japan expansion and security collaboration.
Is the aircraft fully autonomous?
Yes, the system is designed for fully autonomous flight operations, allowing for “fleet-scale” management where a single operator can oversee multiple aircraft simultaneously.
Grid Aero Secures $20M Series A to Deploy Long-Range Autonomous Airlift for Contested Logistics
The “Lifter-Lite” Platform: Capabilities and Design
Leadership and Engineering Pedigree
Strategic Context: Addressing Contested Logistics
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Grid Aero
Defense & Military
Apogee Aerospace Signs $420M Deal for Albatross Amphibious Aircraft
Apogee Aerospace partners with Australia’s AAI to purchase 15 Albatross 2.0 amphibious planes and invest in India’s seaplane infrastructure.
This article summarizes reporting by The Economic Times.
In a significant development for India’s regional and maritime aviation sectors, Apogee Aerospace Pvt Ltd has signed a definitive agreement with Australia’s Amphibian Aerospace Industries (AAI). According to reporting by The Economic Times, the deal, finalized on February 5, 2026, is valued at approximately Rs 3,500 crore ($420 million) and involves the purchase of 15 Albatross 2.0 amphibian aircraft.
The partnership extends beyond a simple acquisition. Reports indicate that Apogee Aerospace will invest an additional Rs 500 crore ($60 million) to develop a domestic ecosystem for seaplanes in India. This infrastructure commitment includes a final assembly line, a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, and a pilot training center. The move appears strategically timed to align with the Indian Navy’s recent interest in acquiring amphibious capabilities.
The agreement outlines a comprehensive collaboration between the Indian entity and the Darwin-based manufacturer. As detailed in the report, Apogee Aerospace, a special purpose vehicle of the deep-tech defense firm Apogee C4i LLP, has secured 15 units of the G-111T Albatross. This modernized aircraft is a “revival” of the Grumman HU-16, a platform historically utilized for open-ocean rescue missions.
To cement the partnership, Apogee has reportedly invested $7 million (Rs 65 crore) directly into AAI’s parent company, Amphibian Aircraft Holdings. This equity stake grants the Indian firm a long-term interest in the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). According to the timeline provided in the reporting, the first aircraft is expected to enter the Indian market within 18 to 24 months, with a demonstration aircraft likely arriving within six months.
A central component of the deal is the focus on “Make in India” initiatives. The Rs 500 crore investment is designated for establishing local capabilities that would allow Apogee to service the fleet domestically. This aligns with the Indian government’s Union Budget 2026-27, which explicitly offered incentives for indigenous seaplane manufacturing and viability gap funding for operators.
The aircraft at the center of this procurement is the Albatross 2.0, also known as the G-111T. While based on a legacy airframe, the new variants are being rebuilt in Darwin with significant modernizations. The Economic Times notes that AAI holds the type certificate for the aircraft, which is the only FAA and EASA-certified transport-category amphibian in its class.
Key upgrades to the platform include: The timing of this commercial agreement coincides with a major defense procurement opportunity. On January 10–12, 2026, the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking to wet-lease four amphibious aircraft for the Indian Navy. The Navy requires these assets for SAR operations, island logistics in the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep archipelagos, and maritime surveillance.
Industry observers suggest that the Apogee-AAI partnership intends to bid for this contract against established global competitors, most notably Japan’s ShinMaywa. The ShinMaywa US-2 has been evaluated by the Indian Navy for over a decade, but high unit costs, estimated at over $110 million per aircraft, have historically stalled acquisition efforts. In contrast, the Albatross 2.0 is positioned as a cost-effective alternative, with a claimed unit cost significantly lower than its Japanese competitor.
We view this deal as a calculated gamble by Apogee Aerospace to disrupt a defense procurement process that has been stagnant for years. By securing a commercial order and investing in local MRO, Apogee is likely attempting to present a “sovereign industrial capability” argument to the Ministry of Defence. This approach addresses two critical pain points for Indian defense planners: cost and indigenization.
However, risks remain. While the ShinMaywa US-2 is a proven, currently operational platform with extreme rough-sea capabilities, the Albatross 2.0 is effectively a remanufactured legacy aircraft from a company that is still ramping up production. The Indian Navy’s RFI calls for an immediate wet-lease solution. Whether AAI can meet the operational readiness requirements with a production line that is still maturing will be the key factor in the upcoming bid evaluation. The promise of a demo aircraft in six months will be the first real test of this partnership’s viability.
Sources: The Economic Times
Apogee Aerospace Signs $420M Deal for Albatross Amphibious Aircraft
Deal Structure and Investment Details
Domestic Manufacturing and MRO
The Albatross 2.0 (G-111T) Platform
Strategic Context: The Indian Navy Bid
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: AAI
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