The government-owned aerospace company, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is expected to supply two Tejas Mark-1A fighter aircraft next month. Following the delivery of these two aircraft, the government may sign a new contract with HAL for the procurement of 97 additional Tejas aircraft. The Indian Air Force had previously expressed concerns regarding delays in the supply of Tejas Mark 1A aircraft under the previous contract. The first two aircraft are anticipated to be delivered with weapon integration by the end of September.
Approximately 38 Tejas aircraft are already in service, with another 80 currently under manufacture. In February 2021, the Ministry of Defence finalized a deal with HAL for 83 Tejas Mark-1A aircraft, valued at ₹48,000 crore. Delays in the delivery have primarily stemmed from the inability of US defense company GE Aerospace to meet deadlines for the supply of engines for these aircraft. Recently, the government approved an additional batch of 97 Tejas fighter aircraft, at a cost of approximately ₹67,000 crore. HAL is expected to have a four to five-year order book. Efforts will be made to enhance the platform, integrate radar, and incorporate Indian weapons to make it a valuable asset alongside the Sukhoi. The single-engine Mk-1A will replace the Indian Air Force’s MiG-21 fighter jets. The Indian Air Force is considering including these fighter aircraft as its fighter squadrons have decreased from the officially sanctioned 42 to 31.
