India's ambitious Tejas Mk1A program is facing potential setbacks due to the ongoing delays in the supply of F404 engines from GE Aerospace. These delays, stemming from supply chain constraints, are predicted to push back the delivery of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) by 10-12 months.
A critical concern lies in the lack of a readily available alternative engine for the Tejas Mk1A. The aircraft was specifically designed around the F404 engine, and other options are either not feasible or years away from being ready. India's indigenous Kaveri engine, though promising, faces its own set of delays and won't be production-ready for another 5-6 years. Meanwhile, the RD-33 engine, once considered a fallback option, is no longer viable.
Despite the engine supply hiccups, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will continue manufacturing the Tejas Mk1A at its current pace. This strategy aims to ensure the jets are ready for immediate delivery once the F404 engines become available again. GE Aerospace has stated it is working with HAL to address the supply chain bottlenecks and has set a target of September 2024 for resuming engine deliveries.
These delays are likely to have a cascading effect on the Indian Air Force's (IAF) plans for inducting the Tejas Mk1A. The IAF is actively looking to expand its fighter squadrons, and the Tejas Mk1A plays a crucial role in this strategic plan. Any delay in the aircraft's delivery could potentially impact the IAF's operational preparedness.
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