India, Nov. 8 -- Plane maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Friday announced that it has signed a deal with US engine maker GE Aerospace for 113 F404-IN20 engines to power the 97 additional light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1A) ordered by the defence ministry to boost the air force's readiness.

The deal, estimated to be worth $1 billion, includes a support package for the execution of the programme.

The engine deliveries would take place between 2027 to 2032, HAL said in a statement on X.

The new engine contract comes a month-and-a-half after the defence ministry signed a Rs.62,370-crore deal with HAL to buy 97 more LCA Mk-1As for the IAF which is wrestling with a worrying shortage of fighter jets. The delivery of these aircraft wi...