India’s Tejas Mk-1A fighter production slowed by GE engine delays, eyes Russian Su-57E

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) received its seventh GE F404‑IN20 engine, ending a months‑long delay that had become the main bottleneck for the Tejas Mk‑1A fighter jet programme. The engine powers both the Mk‑1 and Mk‑1A variants, and its arrival allows HAL to accelerate assembly of the aircraft that the Indian Air Force (IAF) has ordered – 83 units initially, with a later expansion to 180. Under the Rs 48,000 crore contract, GE Aerospace will supply 24‑26 engines annually from 2026, and HAL’s expanded production lines in Bengaluru and Nashik aim to deliver the first batch of Mk‑1A fighters by late 2026.

The prolonged engine shortage has highlighted India’s dependence on U.S. propulsion and prompted officials to explore alternatives. Russia is offering its Su‑57E‑5 (twin‑seat Su‑57) as an interim fifth‑generation fighter, proposing co‑development and local production using HAL’s existing facilities. The deal would integrate Indian radar, avionics and weapons, providing a rapid capability boost amid regional pressure from Pakistan’s upcoming J‑35 and China’s J‑20/J‑35 fleets. The prospect of a Russian platform marks a potential shift in India’s defence procurement strategy away from the United States.