India Ramps Up Tejas Fighter Jet Program with 97 More Planes: Engine Challenges Ahead

Defense News ,India :-  India is getting more serious about its own Tejas fighter jets, and plans are in motion to add 97 more Tejas Mk1A aircraft. This big move comes with both challenges and opportunities, especially when it comes to the powerful engines that make these planes soar.

Challenges and Teamwork

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) are working together to finalize the plans. Before everything is set, HAL and GE representatives will meet in Bangalore. One important topic on the agenda is resolving issues from a previous engine deal, where there were delays in delivering 99 F404-IN20 engines for an earlier set of 83 Tejas Mk1A jets. The delays were due to problems in the supply chain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Special Engine

The F404-IN20 engine is no ordinary engine. It's the most powerful version in its family, producing a thrust output of 84kN. This engine stands out with features like a high-flow fan, an advanced FADEC system, and single-crystal turbine blades – all top-notch technology. Production of this particular engine had actually stopped until HAL's recent order revived it.

Meeting the Demand

Before the increase in Tejas orders, GE had slowed down the production of the F404-IN20. The last order from HAL was way back in 2007. Now, GE is working hard to catch up and has already delivered 75 engines to HAL. GE plans to ramp up production to 20 engines per year, but with HAL needing more than 120 new engines, GE will have to step it up even more, aiming for an annual output of 24-30 units.

In Conclusion

The Tejas program showcases India's growing ambitions in aerospace. The partnership with GE for the F404-IN20 engine is crucial for the program's success. Overcoming production challenges and meeting the increased demand will be key in making sure India's Air Force is equipped with a strong, homegrown fighter.