SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of an additional 97 Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets. This step follows the preliminary approval granted by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), marking a significant expansion in the IAF’s fleet of indigenous light combat aircraft.
The new batch of Tejas Mark-1A jets is set to feature over 65% Indigenous content, aligning with India’s vision for self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The Mark-1A variant represents a leap in capability from the original Tejas Mk-1 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), boasting several enhancements:
Beyond the initial armament, the IAF plans to integrate new air-to-air missiles and precision munitions into the Tejas Mark-1A’s arsenal. Although specifics on additional equipment are yet unclear, the aircraft will carry forward the integration of Rafael Derby and Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAAM.
The possibility of incorporating further weaponry or systems will depend on future negotiations and the strategic needs of the IAF, which might evolve with the ongoing developments in regional security dynamics.
The maiden flight of the Tejas Mk1A occurred in March 2024. However, the aircraft’s delivery has been delayed due to the incorporation of additional software enhancements requested by the Indian Air Force. The first two aircraft are now scheduled for handover around the time of Aero India 2025 in early February. HAL will also get new batch of four to six engines from GE Aviation following a supply chain disruption that hindered Tejas Mk1A deliveries.