Through the publication of a thread on its official X account, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has detailed the status of production of the 180 LCA Tejas Mk1A fighters that will equip the Indian Air Force, seeking to clarify a process marked by both progress and uncertainties. At present, this is one of the most important programs underway for the company, as it represents not only one of the methods adopted to increase the number of available operational squadrons, but also the flagship development of a domestic aerospace industry aiming to strengthen indigenous capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign manufacturers.
Looking at some details, the company states that it has a batch of five aircraft already fully ready for delivery, incorporating into their design all the specific requirements requested by the Indian Air Force. In addition, it was noted that another nine aircraft are awaiting the delivery of F404 engines ordered from the U.S. company General Electric (GE), which, once installed, would allow the corresponding testing phase to proceed and subsequent delivery to the service.
On the other hand, HAL emphasized that it is aware of various design and development issues associated with the aircraft, and that it is working jointly with Air Force experts in order to provide a prompt solution. Furthermore, it has been stated that the delivery pace of the aforementioned engines has now been normalized, after having been identified months ago by Indian authorities as the main cause of delays. It is worth recalling in this regard that up to a dozen engines had been expected to be delivered by the end of last year—something that did not materialize and required talks between HAL and GE to stabilize the situation.
It is useful to highlight at this point that the Indian Air Force confirmed orders for approximately 97 LCA Tejas Mk1A aircraft in September 2025, requiring investments of more than 62.37 billion rupees—an amount equivalent to roughly USD 700 million. As previously reported, this batch can be broken down into 68 single-seat aircraft and 29 twin-seat variants, and will notably integrate up to 64% indigenous components. Compared to the initial order of 83 units, the new Tejas aircraft will incorporate up to 67 new systems in their design, particularly standing out for the integration of the Uttam AESA radar, the Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic self-protection system, and new control surface actuators.
Finally, reviewing the impact on the country’s industrial capabilities, it should be noted that the program involves around 105 Indian companies, providing more than 11,000 skilled jobs. Additionally, in HAL’s case, the orders for its LCA Tejas Mk1A fighters have enabled progress on the inauguration of a third production plant in Nashik, complementing the first two located in Bengaluru. As described last October, this will facilitate the manufacture of up to eight additional fighters per year, which, combined with existing capacity, translates into approximately 24 aircraft annually.
Images used for illustrative purposes
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