Tejas Takes Flight: HAL Set To Deliver First Two Mark-1A Jets To IAF This October

In a major boost to India’s indigenous fighter jet program, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is finally poised to deliver the first two Tejas Mark-1A aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in October 2025. This long-awaited milestone comes after years of developmental hurdles, engine delays, and integration challenges. The delivery marks a significant step toward modernizing the IAF’s combat fleet and reducing dependence on foreign platforms.

 

The Tejas Mark-1A, a 4+ generation single-engine fighter, is designed to replace the ageing MiG-21s and bolster India’s aerial defense capabilities. With advanced avionics, radar systems, and weapon integration, the aircraft promises to be a versatile workhorse for the IAF.

 

Key Milestone Highlights

 

- HAL has confirmed that two Tejas Mark-1A jets are ready for handover, pending final weapon firing trials scheduled later this month.

- These aircraft are part of the 83 jets ordered under a Rs 46,898 crore deal signed in February 2021.

- The delivery was delayed due to a two-year lag in engine supplies from General Electric, which had committed 99 F404 engines under a Rs 5,375 crore contract.

- So far, only two engines have been delivered, with GE promising 10 more by March 2026 and 20 annually thereafter.

 

Weapon Trials And Radar Integration

 

The final hurdle before delivery involves successful completion of weapons integration trials. These include:

 

- Astra beyond visual range air-to-air missiles

- Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAM)

- Laser-guided bombs

 

These trials will also validate the integration of the Israeli-origin Elta ELM-2052 AESA radar and the fire control system. HAL sources confirmed that software modifications were made after a previous test failed, and the upcoming trial will determine readiness for handover.

 

Production Status And Future Deliveries

 

Despite engine delays, HAL has built and flight-tested ten Tejas Mark-1A aircraft. One of the jets is stationed at HAL’s Nashik facility, ready for delivery. The remaining aircraft will be delivered in phases, with the full batch of 83 expected by 2029—four quarters behind the original schedule.

 

In addition, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) recently approved the acquisition of 97 more Tejas Mark-1A jets for Rs 66,500 crore. This will bring the total to 180 aircraft, with HAL aiming to complete deliveries by 2031–32, provided engine supplies remain consistent.

 

IAF’s Urgent Need For Fighters

 

The IAF is currently grappling with a severe shortage of fighter squadrons. With the retirement of the last MiG-21s scheduled for September 26, the force will be left with only 29 squadrons—far below the sanctioned strength of 42. Air Chief Marshal A P Singh has publicly expressed concern, stating that the IAF needs to induct at least 40 fighters annually to maintain operational readiness.

 

So far, the IAF has received 38 of the initial 40 Tejas Mark-1 fighters ordered under contracts signed in 2006 and 2010. The Mark-1A variant, with its enhanced capabilities, is expected to form the backbone of future squadrons.

 

Government Oversight And Strategic Push

 

The Tejas program has received close monitoring from the highest levels of government. Dr PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, recently visited HAL’s Bengaluru facility to review progress. His inspection included the assembly lines for both the Tejas Mark-1A and the upcoming Mark-2 variant, which is slated for rollout in 2027.

 

HAL is also working on upgrading 15 Su-30MKI fighters for the IAF, further consolidating its role in India’s defense aerospace sector.

 

Looking Ahead

 

The successful delivery of the first two Tejas Mark-1A jets will not only validate years of indigenous development but also pave the way for accelerated production and deployment. With engine supplies stabilizing and integration trials nearing completion, HAL appears to be on firm footing to meet future deadlines.

 

The Tejas Mark-1A is more than just a fighter jet—it symbolizes India’s growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing and its ambition to become a global aerospace hub.

 

Sources: Times of India, India Today, News18, Deccan Herald, MSN India