Recently, several media outlets quoted DRDO Chief Dr. Sameer V. Kamat predicting the first flight of the Tejas MkII within the next "6-12 months," hinting at an October 2025 start. However, this is not quite accurate.
1. Rollout:
October-November 2025... The prototype will emerge from the assembly line, marking the start of ground engine runs and system checks.
2. Taxi Trials:
December 2025-February 2026... Low and high-speed taxi trials will validate aircraft systems.
3. Maiden Flight:
February-March 2026... The inaugural flight will test basic flight characteristics.
4. Production:
Starting 2028-2029, with 18 units annually.
Source: aajtak
Tejas MkII is a sophisticated 4.5-generation fighter aircraft, a bridge between the Tejas MkI and fifth-generation AMCA. It boasts a powerful F414-INS6 engine, state-of-the-art AESA radar, and advanced weapons suite. The plan includes inducting 120-180 units by 2035, replacing older fighter jets.
Discover Unique Features of Tejas Mk2
The cockpit will be NVG-compatible, making nighttime or low-light enemy targeting possible. HOTAS systems ensure control and weapon deployment from the same lever.
Soaring the Skies at a Speed of 2223 km/h
This aircraft can attain speeds up to 2223 km/h with a range of approximately 2500 km. It can climb to a maximum altitude of 56,758 feet. The fighter jet is equipped with a 30mm GSh-30-1 gun capable of firing 1500-1800 rounds per minute, with an effective range of 200 to 1800 meters.
Source: aajtak
Equipped with a Lethal Arsenal
Beyond the gun, the fighter includes 13 hardpoints for similar or diverse weaponry, including five types of air-to-air missiles like MICA, ASRAAM, Meteor, Astra, and NG-CCM, whose deployment is almost certain.
The jet is also equipped with four types of air-to-ground missiles—BrahMos-NG ALCM, LRLACM, Storm Shadow, and Crystal Maze. Additionally, it includes anti-radiation missiles Rudram 1/2/3, and accommodates precision-guided bombs, a laser-guided bomb, cluster munitions, loitering munitions CATS ALPHA, and unguided bombs.
