The Indian Air Force has signed a contract with GE Aerospace to set up a dedicated staging facility for F404-IN20 engines powering the Tejas light combat aircraft. The facility will enable in-country repair and overhaul, strengthening engine availability and operational readiness for the Tejas fleet.
According to GE, the depot will combine its technical expertise with inputs from the IAF to streamline sustainment, reduce turnaround times, and lower dependence on overseas support. While the air force will own and operate the facility, GE will provide training, manpower support, spare parts, and specialized engineering solutions.
The F404-IN20 is an afterburning turbofan equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC), allowing automated management of engine performance. Delivering around 20,000 horsepower, it enables the Tejas to reach speeds of Mach 1.8, operate at altitudes of up to 16,000 meters, and achieve a range of approximately 3,000 kilometers.
This development follows a November 2025 agreement between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and GE Aerospace for the procurement of over 100 F404-IN20 engines for the IAF, with deliveries scheduled between 2027 and 2032.
