SOURCE: AFI
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has confirmed significant progress in the development of the Tejas Mk2, India’s next-generation Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). The first prototype is currently under manufacturing, with the maiden flight now scheduled for the first quarter of 2026 (April–July), marking a slight delay from the previously anticipated timeline of Q4 2025. This update, announced by HAL and corroborated by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its indigenous defense aviation capabilities.
The Tejas Mk2, also known as the Medium Weight Fighter (MWF), is a 4.5-generation multirole combat aircraft designed to address the shortcomings of the Tejas Mk1 and Mk1A while meeting the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) stringent requirements. Featuring a larger airframe, close-coupled canards, a more powerful General Electric F414-INS6 engine, and advanced avionics, the Mk2 is poised to replace aging IAF aircraft such as the SEPECAT Jaguar, Dassault Mirage 2000, and Mikoyan MiG-29. The aircraft will boast an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, an integrated Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system, and the ability to carry indigenous weapons like the Astra air-to-air missile and BrahMos-NG air-to-ground missile.
According to HAL officials, the prototype’s assembly is progressing steadily, with over 60% of the aircraft’s structure completed as of early 2025. The center fuselage and wings have been integrated, and the front and rear fuselage sections are nearing completion. The assembly process, conducted at HAL’s Bengaluru facility, leverages the existing supplier network from the Tejas Mk1 program to ensure quality and efficiency. Six F414-INS6 engines have already been delivered to ADA, facilitating prototype development and testing. However, the slight delay in the first flight timeline is attributed to the complexity of integrating advanced subsystems, including avionics and electronic warfare suites, which require meticulous testing to ensure operational readiness.
The rollout of the Tejas Mk2 prototype is expected by November–December 2025, followed by ground testing, including engine runs and low- and high-speed taxi trials, scheduled from December 2025 to March 2026. These trials will validate the aircraft’s systems before its first flight. HAL has opted for a low-key rollout without ceremonial fanfare, focusing on technical milestones to expedite the testing phase. The IAF anticipates the Tejas Mk2 achieving basic Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) by 2028, with production commencing in 2028–2029 and induction into service by 2030. The program aims to produce 110–120 aircraft initially, with potential orders for up to 210 more, forming six squadrons.
The Tejas Mk2 program has gained momentum since the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved ?10,000 crore in September 2022 for prototype development and testing. Despite earlier delays due to funding constraints and increased indigenization requirements (from 65% to 80%), HAL’s streamlined approach and collaboration with private sector partners have accelerated progress. The aircraft’s indigenous content is expected to reach 82% initially, rising to over 90% with licensed engine production, reinforcing India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
As the IAF seeks to modernize its fleet amid regional security challenges, the Tejas Mk2 is set to play a pivotal role alongside the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). With its enhanced payload capacity (6,500 kg), extended range, and versatile weapon stations, the Mk2 will bridge the gap between current LCA variants and future stealth fighters. The successful rollout and first flight in 2026 will mark critical milestones in India’s journey toward a robust, indigenous aerospace ecosystem.
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