HAL receives 4th engine for Tejas:Indian Air Force to get 2 Mark-1A, 83 aircrafts

Tejas Mark-1A is an advanced version of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), featuring upgraded avionics, radar systems, and over 65% indigenous components.

The single-engine aircraft, developed by HAL in collaboration with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and DRDO, is designed for air, water, and ground attacks and can operate in challenging conditions.

February 2021, the government signed a ₹48,000 crore deal with HAL to procure 83aircraft. The deliveries have been delayed due to late engine supply from the US. HAL is expected to complete the full delivery by 2028.

On September 25, the Union Ministry of Defence awarded HAL a contract to build an additional 97 Mark-1A jets for the IAF, finalising a ₹62,370 crore deal.

These aircraft will replace the MiG-21 fleet, which retired on September 26 after 62 years of service, having played a key role in the 1971 war, Kargil conflict, and multiple other missions. The new Mark-1A jets will feature self-protection suites, control actuators, and 67 new indigenous components, with over 64% indigenous content. They are expected to be deployed at the Nal Airbase in Bikaner, Rajasthan, close to the Pakistan border.

The accelerated production and induction of Tejas Mark-1A aircraft signify India’s ongoing push to modernise its Air Force with indigenous defense technology.

PM Modi’s flown in Tejas

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had flown in the Tejas fighter aircraft on November 25, 2022, in Bengaluru, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister piloted a fighter jet. His visit included a stop at HAL’s Bengaluru facility.