Despite setbacks in the delivery of GE 404 engines from its U.S. manufacturer, India is making significant strides in the production of its indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) to fulfill the Indian Air Force's requirements. The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) anticipates completing 14 LCA Mk1A airframes integrated with other essential systems within the current financial year.
The LCA Mk1A, the latest iteration of the aircraft, is currently undergoing rigorous flight tests, and the delivery of the first fighter jet is expected within two months. The Indian Air Force has placed an order for 83 of these advanced aircraft.
While HAL is actively manufacturing airframes and integrating systems, the delay in the supply of GE 404 engines, attributed to supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, has impacted the delivery timeline. The initial plan was to deliver the first LCA Mk1A in July.
According to sources, GE is projected to resume engine deliveries by October. To mitigate the impact of the delay, HAL has devised a strategic plan to continue manufacturing airframes and integrating systems, with the engines to be fitted later once GE's supply chain stabilizes. This approach ensures that at least 14 airframes will be in a ready-to-fly state by the end of the financial year.
HAL currently operates two active production lines for the LCA Mk1A in Bengaluru, with a third line in Nashik expected to become operational by October. Each production line has the capacity to produce eight aircraft annually. Despite the engine supply challenges, HAL remains confident in meeting the 2028 deadline for delivering all 83 LCA Mk1A jets on order.
Currently, the first LCA Mk1A is undergoing flight tests and will soon demonstrate its capability to fire indigenous weapons, including the Astra beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile. Additionally, the second production aircraft is undergoing ground trials, and four more are in advanced stages of manufacturing.
In anticipation of a potential order for an additional 97 LCA Mk1A aircraft, India is already in discussions with GE to significantly increase the order for GE 404 engines. This proactive approach aims to ensure timely deliveries and prevent future delays in production.
