India on Monday received the second GE-404 engine from the United States for its ambitious Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A programme, giving a significant boost to the indigenous fighter jet project, news agency ANI reported. These advanced engines are being delivered to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which is tasked with integrating them into the LCA Mark 1A jets. According to defence officials, HAL is set to receive 12 more GE-404 engines by March 2026. These engines will power the LCA Mark 1A fighter jets. Notably, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has already placed firm orders for 83 LCA Mark 1A aircraft. In addition, a proposal to procure 97 more jets is now in an advanced stage of processing, having already secured clearance from the Ministry of Defence.
