India Signs Deal for Indigenous Tejas Mk-1A Fighter Jets

(MENAFN) New Delhi has inked an agreement valued at $7.1 billion with the government-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the acquisition of 97 Tejas Mk-1A light combat aircraft (LCA), the Defense Ministry announced on Thursday.

The contract includes 68 single-seat fighters and 29 twin-seat trainer jets, with deliveries to the Indian Air Force (IAF) expected to start between 2027 and 2028 and continue for approximately six years, the ministry added.

This procurement is regarded as a significant endorsement of the government’s “Make in India” campaign.

The Tejas fighters will incorporate 64% domestically sourced components, supported by nearly 105 Indian companies directly involved in producing various parts.

“The integration of advanced indigenously developed systems such as the Uttam AESA (active electronically scanned array) radar, Swayam Raksha Kavach (electronic warfare suite), and control surface actuators will further strengthen the Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiatives,” the ministry stated in its release.

The acquisition of the Tejas Mk-1A jets forms part of a broader strategy to phase out the country’s aging fleet of MiG fighter aircraft, which have been sourced from the USSR and Russia over several decades.

Currently, two LCA Mk-1A aircraft are undergoing important weapon trials involving the ASRAAM (advanced short-range air-to-air missile), according to a news outlet.

“The LCA Mk-1A is the most advanced variant of the indigenously designed and manufactured fighter aircraft and will serve as a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of the IAF,” said the Defense Ministry.

MENAFN28092025000045017167ID1110121023