The Cabinet Committee on Security has approved the procurement of 97 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark 1A jets by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Air Force. The deal is valued at about INR 620 billion. This is the second order for the Tejas Mark 1A, following an earlier order of 83 jets worth approximately INR 480 billion, bringing the total ordered so far to 180 aircraft.
The LCA Tejas Mark 1A is equipped with updated avionics, an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, an upgraded electronic warfare suite, and beyond-visual-range missile capability. HAL stated that the aircraft have more than 65 percent indigenous content.
The new order will support the replacement of the MiG-21 fleet, which the Indian Air Force is retiring. The jets will be built at HAL’s Bengaluru and Nashik production lines. HAL has indicated plans to increase production capacity to about 24 jets annually.
The programme is expected to generate business for small and medium enterprises engaged in defence manufacturing. “The acquisition will be executed across HAL’s established production infrastructure, ensuring delivery timelines are met,” said the company.
Beyond the Mark 1A, HAL expects future orders for the LCA Mark 2 and an advanced indigenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, headquartered in Bengaluru, is a state-owned aerospace and defence company engaged in the design, development, and manufacture of aircraft, helicopters, avionics, and related systems.