New Delhi, 02 April (H.S.):

Supplies of engines, radars, and electronic warfare systems for India's Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark-1A from the United States and Israel face further delays due to the ongoing Iran conflict. GE Aerospace has prepared the sixth F404 engine for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), but delivery remains stalled.

HAL has begun imposing liquidated damages on GE Aerospace for persistent engine supply delays.

Similarly, software for Israeli radars remains undelivered.

HAL Chairman's Remarks

HAL Chairman Dr. DK Sunil stated Thursday that five engines are in hand, with the sixth ready for imminent shipment. During his last GE visit, assurances were given for 20 engines between June and December, yet timelines slipped. He confirmed penalties per delayed engine, as these setbacks have significantly postponed IAF deliveries under the contract.

On Israeli radar and EW system delays due to war, Dr. Sunil noted software upgrades arrived late from prior conflicts but current hostilities will impact supplies. Existing equipment offers some buffer, with hopes the conflict ends soon to mitigate further delays.

Defense Ministry sources indicate GE cited US-Israel-Iran war disruptions. The 2021 deal for 99 F404-IN20 engines saw the first delivered March 2025 and fifth in December. Tejas Mk1A's first aircraft, due March 2024, now eyes June-July 2026—over two years late.

Since the February 2021 83-aircraft deal, HAL missed multiple deadlines. IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh voiced public frustration, prompting concessions for FY26 deliveries contingent on completed missile tests, radar-EW integration, and weaponization by ADA and HAL.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar