The Indian Air Force is on the cusp of a significant upgrade with the impending delivery of two Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL). Defence ministry sources on Tuesday confirmed that the jets will be delivered by the end of September 2025.
This development is part of a larger effort to bolster India’s air defense capabilities. The Tejas Mark-1A is a state-of-the-art, single-engine multi-role fighter aircraft designed to undertake air defense, maritime reconnaissance and strike roles.
The Tejas Mark-1A is set to play a key role in enhancing the Indian Air Force’s operational effectiveness with its advanced capabilities.
Last week, India Today reported a major boost for Make in India as the Modi government approved the purchase of 97 more Light Combat Aircraft Mark 1A fighter jets, worth around Rs 67,000 crore, for the Indian Air Force.
HAL is ramping up production of the Tejas Mark-1A, with 38 jets in service and about 80 under manufacture. Once finalised, the new contract will keep HAL’s order book full for four to five years.
The Tejas program has faced some challenges, including delays in the delivery of aero engines by GE Aerospace. However, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh expressed confidence that HAL will be able to perfect the platform and integrate the radar and Indian weapons, making the Tejas Mark-1A a key asset for the Air Force.
The induction of the Tejas Mark-1A will help bridge the gap between the Indian Air Force’s operational squadrons and its sanctioned strength. With only 31 operational squadrons compared to the sanctioned strength of 42, the Air Force is looking to induct the Tejas Mark-1A to enhance its air defense capabilities.
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