SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to significantly extend the production timeline of the indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A. The force plans to place orders for an additional 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets later this year.
This development comes after the IAF had already placed an order for 83 Tejas Mk1A jets in 2021. Without the new order, the production line was projected to conclude around 2028. However, with the upcoming larger order, the production timeline is now extended to 2032.
To meet the increased production demands, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is gearing up to establish three dedicated LCA divisions, each capable of producing 24 aircraft annually. This strategic move will ensure a steady supply of Tejas fighters to the IAF.
The prolonged production of the Tejas Mk1A will provide a crucial bridge until the LCA Mk II, a more advanced variant, enters full-scale production. This phased approach will bolster the IAF’s combat capabilities while supporting the domestic aerospace industry.