Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has taken a significant step forward in its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A programme by entering into a crucial agreement with General Electric (GE) for the supply of 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines. This deal, finalized on November 7, 2025, marks a major milestone in India's indigenous fighter jet production efforts.

Key Details of the Agreement

Background and Significance

The agreement comes on the heels of a contract signed in September 2025 for 97 LCA Mk1A aircraft. This engine supply deal is crucial for powering these advanced indigenous fighter jets, showcasing HAL's commitment to enhancing India's aerospace capabilities.

Support Package Included

In addition to the engines, the agreement also includes a support package, ensuring the smooth execution of the LCA Mk1A programme. This comprehensive approach underlines the long-term partnership between HAL and GE, focusing not just on supply but also on sustained operational efficiency.

Implications for Indian Aerospace

This deal represents a significant boost to India's indigenous aircraft manufacturing capabilities. The LCA Mk1A programme is a cornerstone of India's efforts to modernize its air force with domestically produced aircraft, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and promoting self-reliance in defense technology.

The extended delivery schedule from 2027 to 2032 indicates a long-term commitment to the programme, ensuring a steady supply of engines for the planned production of LCA Mk1A aircraft over the coming years.

As HAL continues to advance its technological capabilities and strengthen international partnerships, deals like this play a crucial role in positioning India as a significant player in the global aerospace industry.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has taken a significant step towards bolstering India's aerospace manufacturing capabilities by signing a groundbreaking agreement in Moscow for the production of SJ-100 aircraft. This landmark deal marks the first instance of a full passenger plane to be manufactured in India since the production of AVRO HS-748 ended in 1988.

Agreement Details

HAL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Public Joint Stock Company United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC-UAC) of Russia on October 27, 2025, in Moscow. The agreement was signed by Shri Prabhat Ranjan from HAL and Mr. Oleg Bogomolov from PJSC UAC, in the presence of Dr. D. K. Sunil, CMD of HAL, and Mr. Vadim Badeka, Director General of PJSC UAC.

About the SJ-100

The SJ-100 is a twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft designed for regional connectivity. Key features of the aircraft include:

Impact on Regional Connectivity

This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity under India's UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme. The SJ-100 is positioned as a potential game-changer for short-haul routes, addressing the growing demand for regional air travel in India.

Market Potential

According to estimates provided in the HAL media release:

Manufacturing Rights and Economic Impact

Under this arrangement, HAL will have the rights to manufacture SJ-100 aircraft for domestic customers. This collaboration is expected to:

1. Strengthen the private sector in India's aerospace industry
2. Create both direct and indirect employment opportunities
3. Contribute to the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative in the civil aviation sector

Historical Significance

This agreement represents a significant milestone in India's aviation history:

• It marks the first full passenger plane to be manufactured in India since the AVRO HS-748 production, which ran from 1961 to 1988.
• The collaboration between HAL and UAC is built on mutual trust and aims to elevate India's position in the global aerospace manufacturing landscape.

As India's aviation sector continues to grow, the production of SJ-100 aircraft is poised to play a pivotal role in meeting the increasing demand for regional connectivity while fostering domestic manufacturing capabilities in the aerospace sector.