SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
In a significant development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit Washington later this month, where he is expected to address the critical issue of delays in the supply of GE-F404 turbofan engines to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) by the American firm General Electric (GE). This delay has become a primary factor impacting the delivery timeline of 83 Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF), a deal valued at ?46,898 crore that was finalized in February 2021.
The GE-F404 engine is the heart of the Tejas Mk1A, India’s indigenous light combat aircraft (LCA). Under the agreement, the IAF is to receive 83 upgraded Tejas Mark-1A jets from HAL, with deliveries originally expected to commence in 2023. However, the delay in engine supply from GE has posed a significant hurdle in meeting the delivery schedule.
The delay not only affects HAL’s production timeline but also impacts the IAF’s operational readiness. The Tejas Mk1A is a critical component in India’s effort to modernize its air force and reduce reliance on foreign-built aircraft. Any setbacks in the delivery of these aircraft could hinder the IAF’s capacity to maintain air superiority in the region.
HAL has been in communication with GE regarding the delays, and both parties are reportedly working to resolve the supply chain issues that have led to this situation. With Singh’s intervention, it is hoped that the matter will be expedited, ensuring that the production of Tejas Mk1A jets remains on track.
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