In a landmark step towards self-reliance in defence, the Indian government has approved a ₹62,000 crore deal for the purchase of 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark 1A jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The decision, cleared in a high-level meeting on August 19, 2025, paves the way for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to begin large-scale production, further strengthening India’s indigenous aerospace capabilities.
Expanding the Indigenous Fighter Fleet
This is the second major order for the Mark 1A variant,
- Earlier order: 83 aircraft worth ₹48,000 crore.
- New order: 97 aircraft worth ₹62,000 crore.
- Combined strength: 180 Tejas Mark 1A jets.
The new fleet will replace the ageing MiG-21 aircraft, which are set to be retired soon, and eventually form the backbone of India’s fighter squadrons.
Tejas Mark 1A: A Boost for Make in India
- The deal is a significant push for the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, with the Tejas programme acting as a flagship of indigenous defence manufacturing.
- 65% indigenous content, involving hundreds of MSMEs in the supply chain.
- Advanced avionics, upgraded radar, and electronic warfare systems compared to earlier LCAs.
- Enhanced operational readiness and reduced dependence on imports.
- This order will also generate jobs, stimulate domestic industries, and expand India’s defence exports potential.
Future Roadmap: Towards Tejas Mark 2 and AMCA
The Tejas Mark 1A order is part of a broader modernization plan for the IAF,
- Tejas Mark 2: HAL is expected to receive orders for 200+ units.
- Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA): India’s indigenous 5th-generation fighter, with potential for 200+ units.
Recent approvals
- 156 LCH Prachand helicopters.
- Upgrade of 84 Su-30MKI fighters.
- Collectively worth ₹1.6 lakh crore.
- These acquisitions highlight India’s strategy of phasing out legacy aircraft and building a modern, indigenous fleet.
Historical Context
- First Tejas induction: 2016.
- Current status: Two IAF squadrons operational.
- Orders placed: ₹36,468 crore for 83 Mark 1A jets (deliveries began Feb 2024).
- Expected role: Largest fighter fleet in IAF, gradually replacing older Soviet-era aircraft.
Strategic Importance
- Strengthening IAF Capability – Replaces MiG-21s with a modern, indigenous platform.
- Boost to Defence Manufacturing – Strengthens HAL and hundreds of local suppliers.
- Self-Reliance in Aerospace – Reduces import dependency and promotes exports.
- Operational Edge – Enhanced radar, avionics, and warfare systems improve combat readiness.
- Economic Growth – Large-scale domestic production stimulates jobs and industry.
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