India has officially approved the acquisition of 97 Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A fighter jets for its air force. This decision came during a high-level meeting on August 19, which will enable the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to ramp up production of this indigenous aircraft. This order follows a previous deal for 83 fighter jets worth approximately Rs 48,000 crore, marking a significant advance in India’s defense capabilities.
The newly acquired fleet is anticipated to replace India’s ageing MiG-21 jets, which are scheduled for retirement in the coming weeks. Strong backing from the defense ministry and air force command is expected to fortify the Indian Air Force (IAF) while simultaneously boosting the country’s defense manufacturing sector, which will create opportunities for numerous small and medium enterprises. HAL has been recognized as a cornerstone of India’s aerospace industry and plays a crucial role in Prime Minister Modi’s vision for enhancing indigenous fighter production. Notably, Modi himself piloted the trainer variant of the Tejas last year, marking a historic moment as the first Indian leader to operate a combat aircraft.
The LCA Mark 1A features upgraded avionics and radar compared to the initial 40 Tejas aircraft delivered to the air force. Officials indicated that the latest batch would incorporate over 65% indigenous content. This latest order reinforces India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense, with HAL poised to secure additional contracts for over 200 LCA Mark 2 jets along with a similar quantity of fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft.
Former air chief marshal VR Chaudhari highlighted the expansion of the Tejas program during a visit to Spain in 2022, calling the upcoming order a “mega boost” for indigenous fighter manufacturing. The government promotes the Tejas program as a symbol of its Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative and as part of its ambition to establish India as a significant player in the aerospace sector.
Original Source: https://www.firstpost.com/india/rs-62000-crore-deal-for-97-tejas-lca-mk1a-fighter-jets-gets-govts-green-light-13926281.html
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Publish Date: 2025-08-20 01:39:00
