New Delhi: Public sector defence manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Thursday said it has five Tejas Mark 1-A fighter aircraft fully ready for delivery to the Indian Air Force, even as delays in engine supplies from the United States continue to affect the overall induction schedule.
In a statement, the Bengaluru-based company said that another nine aircraft have already been manufactured and are awaiting engines from US aerospace firm General Electric. HAL confirmed that once the engines are received, the aircraft will be made ready for immediate delivery.
The company said the five completed aircraft incorporate all major contracted capabilities and meet the agreed specifications. It added that all design and development issues identified during the production process are being addressed on a priority basis. HAL also said it is in continuous discussions with the Indian Air Force to ensure early delivery and remains confident of meeting the timelines projected for the current financial year.
HAL further disclosed that it has so far received five engines from GE. According to the company, the supply outlook from the US firm is positive and aligns with its future delivery plans for the Tejas Mark 1-A programme.
Sources said delays in the supply of GE F404 engines have significantly impacted the delivery schedule of the fighter jets. HAL is producing 180 Tejas Mark 1-A aircraft for the Indian Air Force, with deliveries originally scheduled to begin in March 2024. The engines were expected to arrive before that date, but supply disruptions have pushed timelines back.
The delay in engine supplies has become a concern for India, given its commercial commitments to US-origin defence equipment. In July last year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had raised the issue with his US counterpart, urging faster delivery of the engines required for the indigenous fighter aircraft programme.
