India is ramping up the production of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), thanks to General Electric’s (GE) commitment to deliver the necessary engines on time. This is essential for the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has been struggling with a shortage of fighter jets. Currently, the IAF operates only 31 squadrons instead of the authorized 42. The Tejas project is vital for bolstering the country’s defense needs, so timely engine delivery is crucial for production.
GE had faced delays in providing the F-404 engines for the Tejas Mk-1 but has promised to start deliveries by March. The company currently has a backlog of 26 engines but plans to ramp up production quickly. These delays have significantly impacted the Tejas program, but HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) is optimistic about catching up now that a delivery schedule is in place.
HAL has three production lines: two in Bengaluru and one in Nashik. The Nashik facility aims to produce its first Tejas aircraft by March, which should help accelerate overall production. According to defense officials, HAL plans to have five Tejas Mark-1A jets and four trainers ready by March-April. If GE delivers the engines as promised, fitting them will take just a few days.
To handle the growing demand, HAL is looking to expand production. The first Tejas Mark-1A is expected from the Nashik line within two months. Additionally, HAL is subcontracting parts to private companies to boost efficiency. If all goes well, production could increase to 30 aircraft per year.
Progress is also being made with the Tejas Mk-1A, which has integrated advanced systems like electronic warfare capabilities and Israeli radars. Testing is underway for the indigenous Astra air-to-air missiles. The aircraft’s first flight occurred last March, bringing it closer to delivery for the IAF.
The IAF signed a contract for 83 aircraft in 2021, which includes 73 fighters and 10 trainers, amounting to ₹45,696 crore. The first aircraft from this batch is expected soon. HAL is working hard to meet its delivery commitments despite earlier setbacks. There’s also an order in progress for an additional 97 Tejas Mk-1A fighters, valued at ₹67,000 crore.
India’s defense needs are more pressing than ever, particularly concerning threats from China and Pakistan. With older MiG-21 squadrons being phased out and only a few Tejas Mk-1 fighters in service, modern fighter jets are crucial. The Chief of Air Staff has voiced concerns about the delays in Tejas deliveries, especially with new threats emerging from China. While 38 out of 40 Tejas Mk-1 fighters have been delivered, the final two trainers are expected soon.
The future of the Tejas program also includes the Tejas Mk-2, which promises greater capabilities. HAL and GE are negotiating a co-production agreement for the more powerful GE-F414 engines, expected to enhance combat range and weapon capacity considerably. The development of the Tejas Mk-2 has already received government approval with a budget of ₹9,000 crore, and prototype testing is anticipated in the coming years.
The Tejas Mk-2 will feature a weight increase to 17.5 tonnes, compared to the Mk-1’s 13.5 tonnes, making it a more capable fighter. This new model aims to replace older aircraft like the Mirage-2000, MiG-29, and Jaguars in the IAF’s fleet, preparing India for future challenges in the sky.
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