Indian Air Force to Receive First Tejas Mk1A Aircraft in October

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to induct its first two Tejas Mk1A fighter jets in October, marking a significant milestone in India’s indigenous combat aircraft programme. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) confirmed preparations for delivery after overcoming delays caused by engine shortages.

According to senior HAL officials, two General Electric (GE) F404 engines have already been received, with a total of 12 expected by year-end. Ten aircraft have completed flying trials and are ready for handover once final tests are cleared. A critical trial scheduled this month will evaluate advanced weapon systems, including the indigenous Astra beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missile, the Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM), and laser-guided bombs. While an initial trial was successful, technical issues during a second test required software refinements. The aircraft must successfully complete the final evaluation before delivery.

Engine Deliveries Resume
India’s fighter jet programme gained momentum with the resumption of engine supplies from GE. HAL has received two engines so far, with two more expected shortly. From next year, GE has committed to supplying 20 engines annually.

The current contract, signed in 2021 for 99 F404 engines, followed a hiatus after 65 engines were delivered by 2016. Production had been paused due to the absence of follow-on orders but restarted after the 2021 agreement.

The government is closely tracking the Tejas programme’s progress. Recently, Dr. P.K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, visited HAL’s Bengaluru facility to review both the Tejas Mk1A and the upcoming Mk2 version. He inspected the assembly hangar alongside HAL Chairman and Managing Director Dr. D.K. Sunil and other senior officials.

IAF’s Tejas Induction Plan
The IAF initially inducted 40 Tejas Mk1 aircraft to form two squadrons. In 2021, the Ministry of Defence placed a larger order for 83 Tejas Mk1A jets, comprising 73 fighter aircraft and 10 trainer variants, intended to equip four additional squadrons. Deliveries are scheduled to conclude by 2031.

Designed, developed, and manufactured in India, the Tejas Mk1A is a 4.5-generation multirole fighter aircraft equipped with advanced avionics, weapons integration, and electronic warfare systems. In 2023, the Defence Acquisition Council approved the procurement of 97 additional Tejas Mk1A aircraft to raise five more squadrons, with final approval now in place.