The Government of India and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are on the verge of sealing a significant deal. Under this agreement, HAL will manufacture an additional 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA Mk-1A) for the Indian Air Force (IAF), at an estimated cost of around ₹66,000 crore.
HAL's chief, DK Sunil, disclosed to an English newspaper that this contract could be signed by October 2025, as soon as HAL delivers the first two jets of the previously ordered 83 LCA Mk-1A to the Air Force.
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What Makes the LCA Mk-1A Special?
The LCA Mk-1A is India's indigenous fighter jet, designed and developed by HAL. This lightweight, swift jet is packed with advanced armaments, significantly boosting the Indian Air Force's strength. Outfitted with the latest radar system (Uttam AESA Radar) and electronic warfare suite, it elevates the jet's capabilities to a formidable level.
Source: aajtak
Contract Preparations and Engine Deal
HAL Chief DK Sunil mentioned that paperwork for the 97 new LCA Mk-1As has already begun. Alongside this contract, there's a significant deal involving the purchase of 113 F404-IN20 engines from US-based GE Aerospace, valued at around $1 billion (approximately ₹8,300 crore).
This might also be finalized by October 2025. These engines will power the new LCA Mk-1A jets. Sunil noted that once the contract is signed, subsequent deals for engines and essential equipment will commence. The goal is timely delivery of the jets to the Air Force.
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Why the Delay in Initial Orders?
In 2021, the government placed an order worth ₹48,000 crore for 83 LCA Mk-1A jets, with deliveries slated to begin in March 2024. However, delays in engine supply from GE Aerospace have postponed this timeline. Sunil stated global supply chain challenges have impacted the project, but conditions are now improving.
Source: aajtak
GE Aerospace has supplied three out of the 99 engines so far and pledged seven more by December 2025. An additional 20 engines are expected next year. From 2027, GE Aerospace aims to deliver over 20 engines annually, accelerating jet deliveries.
Weapon Testing and Preparation for Delivery
The LCA Mk-1A program is now on the right track. HAL reports that 10 LCA Mk-1A jets are ready, two equipped with new engines. The fuselages of another 24 jets are in various preparation stages. HAL’s annual production capability stands at 24 LCA Mk-1A jets.
Two LCA Mk-1As have initiated weapon testing with ASRAAM (Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile) at an eastern Indian firing range. This will be followed by testing the Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM), pending approval from the Center for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC).
Source: aajtak
An Astra missile test was conducted in March but was not entirely successful. Adjustments have since been made to the missile’s software, and a retest is planned. Successful missile launch and target engagement will demonstrate the jet's system efficacy. Correct launching, accurate targeting, and hitting the mark showcase the robustness of the jet systems.
Why Does the Indian Air Force Need LCA Mk-1A?
The Indian Air Force's fleet of fighter jets is dwindling. Indigenous jets like the LCA Mk-1A play a crucial role in addressing this shortage. Delayed deliveries impact combat readiness, placing pressure on HAL for swift handover. Sunil assured the first delivery by October 2025, with subsequent jets following promptly.
What's Unique About the New Trainer Jets?
The new contract includes 97 LCA Mk-1A jets, featuring 29 trainer versions. These trainers will upgrade from the LCA Mk-1 to the Mk-1A standard, equipped with Uttam AESA radar and the latest electronic warfare suite, enhancing their capabilities significantly.
