SOURCE: AFI
In a significant boost to India’s indigenous fighter jet program, the 7th Tejas Mk1A, bearing the serial number LA-5039, successfully completed its maiden flight before the end of March 2025. This milestone underscores the accelerated pace of the Tejas Mk1A initiative, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) rolling out seven aircraft within the span of a year. A grainy image of LA-5039 circulating on X has sparked enthusiasm among defence enthusiasts, signaling that the program is fast-tracking to meet the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) modernization needs.
The Tejas Mk1A, an advanced variant of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1, represents a cornerstone of India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The first Mk1A, LA-5033, took to the skies in March 2024, and the rollout of LA-5039 just over a year later highlights HAL’s ability to ramp up production despite initial challenges, including delays in engine deliveries from General Electric (GE). The successful flight of LA-5039, completed ahead of the March 31, 2025 deadline, reflects improved coordination between HAL, its supply chain, and international partners.
Equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, enhanced electronic warfare systems, and advanced weaponry like the Astra Mk1 missile, the Tejas Mk1A is designed to bolster the IAF’s combat capabilities. The IAF has committed to acquiring 83 Mk1A jets under a ?48,000 crore contract signed in 2021, with plans for an additional 97 aircraft in the pipeline. The rapid succession of rollouts—seven in one year—demonstrates HAL’s determination to meet these ambitious targets and address the IAF’s squadron strength concerns, which have dipped to 31 against an authorized 42.
NOTE: AFI is a proud outsourced content creator partner of IDRW.ORG. All content created by AFI is the sole property of AFI and is protected by copyright. AFI takes copyright infringement seriously and will pursue all legal options available to protect its content.