The indigenous fighter plane, Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A, has experienced extensive delivery delays. However, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has provided a promising update. Recently, HAL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. DK Sunil stated that five Tejas Mk1A jets are now fully equipped and ready.
Test firings and missile trials have been successfully concluded. The company plans to initiate discussions with the Indian Air Force (IAF) for approval soon, targeting delivery within this fiscal year.
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Engine Supply Chains Are No Longer A Hindrance
The principal bottleneck for the Tejas Mk1A deliveries was the delayed supply of F404 engines from GE Aerospace. Fortunately, these engines are now arriving steadily. HAL has installed the engines in five aircraft. HAL anticipates completing remaining minor tests quickly post-trials, enabling timely handover to the IAF.
Sky High Demand and Squadron Shortages
The Indian Air Force urgently needs new fighter jets. Presently, it has only 29 fighter squadrons against the sanctioned 42. The retirement of older aircraft like MiG-21 diminishes combat strength. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has often emphasized the eagerness for Tejas Mk1A. During Aero India last year, he openly expressed dissatisfaction with the program's sluggish pace.
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Tejas Mk1A: The Cutting-Edge Features
Compared to its predecessor, the Tejas Mk1, the Mk1A boasts superior enhancements. Equipped with AESA radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, improved avionics, and air-to-air refueling capabilities, it is more lethal and sophisticated. These jets are set to become the backbone of the IAF's future. HAL has already secured an order for 83 Tejas Mk1A, with potential scaling up to 180 orders.
Source: aajtak
Negotiating the Path Between Rafale Deals
Due to Tejas delivery delays, the Air Force has initiated discussions with France for additional Rafale jets. These critical additions augment IAF’s strength, with 36 already operationally boosting capabilities. The new deal offers a stopgap to quickly expand squadrons, pending Tejas full-scale production.
A Pivotal Step Towards Rest Self-Reliance
Domestic platforms like Tejas are instrumental in India achieving long-term self-sufficiency in defense. Timely delivery remains crucial. HAL’s update reflects the program’s momentum towards alignment. Should IAF approve and trials conclude satisfactorily, the first five Tejas Mk1A might bolster the Air Force by March 2026.
