The Indian Air Power (IAF) is considerably increasing its fleet of indigenously-built Tejas fighter jets. Having issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to Hindustan Aeronautics Restricted (HAL) for the procurement of 97 extra Tejas Mk1A plane, the IAF is demonstrating its dedication to the “Make in India” initiative and its confidence on this homegrown fighter. This transfer follows the Defence Acquisition Council’s (DAC) preliminary approval and marks a serious step in modernizing the IAF’s fighter fleet.
This new batch of Tejas Mk1A jets is ready to function over 65% indigenous content material, a testomony to India’s rising self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The Mk1A variant represents a major improve from the unique Tejas Mk-1 Gentle Fight Plane (LCA), incorporating a number of enhancements:
Energetic Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar: Offering superior situational consciousness and focusing on capabilities.
Digital Warfare Suite: Enhancing the plane’s survivability in contested airspace.
Past Visible Vary Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) capabilities: Particularly, the combination of the Astra Mk1 BVRAAM, indigenously developed by India.
Past the preliminary armament, the IAF plans to combine new air-to-air missiles and precision munitions into the Tejas Mk1A’s arsenal. Whereas specifics on extra gear stay unclear, the plane will proceed to combine the Rafael Derby BVRAAM alongside the Astra Mk1. The potential for incorporating additional weaponry or techniques will depend upon future negotiations and the evolving strategic wants of the IAF.
Although the Tejas Mk1A’s maiden flight occurred in March 2024, supply has been barely delayed as a result of incorporation of extra software program enhancements requested by the IAF. The primary two plane at the moment are scheduled for handover across the time of Aero India 2025 in early February.
Moreover, HAL will obtain a brand new batch of 4 to 6 engines from GE Aviation, addressing a provide chain disruption that beforehand hindered Tejas Mk1A deliveries.
This procurement signifies a serious milestone in India’s journey in direction of self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The Tejas Mk1A, with its superior capabilities and excessive indigenous content material, will play a vital position in strengthening the IAF’s fight readiness and fulfilling its evolving operational necessities.
