India Set to Ink Mega Deal for 97 Additional Tejas Mk-1A Fighters, Cementing Indigenous Aerospace Prowess

In a massive boost to India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat‘ (Self-Reliant India) initiative in defence, the government is poised to sign one of the largest-ever contracts for domestically produced military hardware, procuring an additional 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1A fighters for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This multi-billion dollar deal, estimated to be worth approximately Rs 66,500 crore, is set to be formalized with state-run aerospace behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) shortly after the initial deliveries from a previous order commence.

The fresh contract, which was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), will significantly expand the IAF’s indigenous fighter fleet, bringing the total order book for the advanced Tejas Mk-1A variant to a staggering 180 aircraft. The move is a critical part of the IAF’s fleet modernization plan, aiming to urgently replace its dwindling number of fighter squadrons, particularly with the phased retirement of its ageing MiG-21 fleet.

A Condition Precedent: Deliveries to Trigger New Contract

Crucially, the signing of this mammoth contract is intrinsically linked to HAL’s performance on its earlier order. The Defence Ministry has made it clear that the new deal for 97 jets will be inked only after HAL successfully delivers the first two of the 83 Tejas Mk-1A fighters previously ordered in a separate contract valued at approximately Rs 48,000 crore, signed in February 2021.

HAL has been pushing to accelerate deliveries, with the rollout of the first few aircraft under the 2021 contract anticipated in the coming months. These initial deliveries are considered a major validation of the Mk-1A program’s progress, which has faced delays primarily due to supply chain issues for key components, including the F404-IN20 engines from US-based GE Aerospace.

The Advanced Mk-1A: A Significant Leap

The Tejas Mk-1A is a significantly upgraded version of the original Tejas Mk-1, incorporating over 40 improvements designed to enhance its lethality, maintainability, and survivability. Key features of the Mk-1A include:

• Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar: Provides superior target detection and tracking capabilities.
• Advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite: Offers improved self-protection against enemy threats.
• Enhanced Missile Capability: Integration of Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles like the indigenous Astra and Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM).
• Air-to-Air Refuelling Capability: Extends the aircraft’s operational range and mission endurance.

The new order for 97 aircraft is expected to be split between 68 single-seat fighters and 29 upgraded Mk-1A trainers, which will feature the same advanced systems as the fighter variant.

Boosting Production and Engine Security

To meet the aggressive delivery timelines for the combined 180-jet fleet, HAL is aggressively ramping up its production capacity. The company has established a third production line in Nashik, supplementing its two existing lines in Bengaluru. HAL’s goal is to increase its annual output of LCA Tejas jets from the current rate to around 24 aircraft per year, with plans to push capacity even higher in the future.

Furthermore, the new 97-jet contract will also trigger a major sub-contract with GE Aerospace for an additional 113 F404-IN20 engines, a deal reportedly worth over $1 billion. This parallel engine contract is crucial for ensuring a steady supply chain and mitigating the component shortages that plagued the initial order.

The finalization of this monumental deal is seen as a defining moment for India’s indigenous defence ecosystem, not only providing the IAF with a modern, potent, multi-role fighter but also creating a vibrant domestic aerospace manufacturing base, fostering technological self-reliance, and strengthening India’s potential to become a significant global exporter of military aircraft. Deliveries from the new order are tentatively scheduled to commence after the completion of the first batch, potentially starting around 2028.