SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Tejas MkII program, a significant milestone in India’s indigenous fighter jet development, is progressing smoothly under the collaborative efforts of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). Both organizations are working closely to ensure that the aircraft not only makes its first flight in 2026 but also enters production by late 2029, with deliveries to the Indian Air Force (IAF) expected to commence in early 2030. This timeline is vital for the IAF, which has specific requirements for its modernization efforts and fighter fleet composition.
For the Tejas MkII to enter production at the desired time, HAL and the IAF must navigate a complex bureaucratic process. A key component of this is obtaining Clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), which follows the acceptance of necessity (AON) granted by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC). The timeline for these approvals is critical; the IAF will go for CCS clearance by the end of 2027 so that the procurement process can proceed and the aircraft can be in production by late 2029.
This step is essential as it directly impacts the timely induction of the fighter jet into the IAF’s fleet. However, HAL and the IAF have recognized the need for close collaboration to ensure that these bureaucratic hurdles are cleared efficiently and that the production schedule is not delayed. As part of this effort, both HAL and the IAF are in constant communication to place orders at the right time, ensuring that the Tejas MkII is delivered on schedule.
According to a HAL official who spoke to idrw.org on the condition of anonymity, both HAL and the IAF have agreed that the initial production of the Tejas MkII will focus on aircraft that meet Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) standards. The aircraft will enter production in this phase, to accelerate its availability for the IAF. Once inducted, the aircraft will undergo further tests and evaluations by the IAF’s Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE).
The focus of the IOC aircraft will be to ensure basic operational capabilities, including the clearance of its weapons system. Over time, ASTE, in collaboration with HAL, will work on integrating and testing additional weapons and systems in multiple phases. This staged approach will allow the Tejas MkII to gradually become fully combat-capable while in service with the IAF.
The development process for the Tejas MkII’s weapons systems will be handled in stages, as the aircraft will initially be cleared for basic weapons systems. HAL and the IAF are prioritizing the integration of software systems to enhance the aircraft’s weaponry. This will involve rigorous testing by ASTE, which will focus on adding more advanced weaponry and refining the software to ensure seamless integration with the aircraft’s avionics and systems.
The Tejas MkII will not only have improved performance and capabilities over its predecessor, the Tejas MkI but it will also be designed to meet the IAF’s specific requirements for a multirole, fourth-generation fighter jet. These capabilities include advanced avionics, a more powerful engine, and enhanced airframe design, all of which will make the Tejas MkII an effective combat platform in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
With the IAF’s strategic intent and HAL’s technical expertise, the Tejas MkII is poised to become a key asset in the Indian Air Force’s fleet. HAL and ADA are working together to ensure that the aircraft will meet the high standards required by the IAF, while also addressing any technical challenges that arise during the development and integration processes.
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