A major step in India’s domestic fighter jet program, the ₹67,000-crore plan calls for the purchase of 97 improved TEJAS MK-1A fighter jets from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) to begin in the fiscal year 2026–27 (FY27). This significant order, which is anticipated to be approved by the Cabinet shortly, comes after the 2021 purchase of 83 TEJAS MK-1A aircraft, which cost about ₹48,000 crore.
HAL’s heightened emphasis on indigenization is a major feature of this new procurement. The improved TEJAS now has a 60% domestic component share, up from about 50% in earlier iterations. Notably, Bharat Electronics Ltd. (BEL) is currently producing vital systems like radar and high-frequency radios, demonstrating a deliberate drive towards independence in defense industry. This intends to fortify the nation’s defense industrial base and is consistent with the government’s “Make in India” campaign.
The improved TEJAS MK-1A is expected to cost approximately ₹600 crore per unit, which is more than earlier batches. The cost of the aircraft’s US-imported General Electric F404 engine has increased, partly due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. These engines’ supply chain problems have just been fixed, and GE has committed to provide 12 engines by December 2025, guaranteeing that production can continue as scheduled.
Production will take place over a period of four to five years, and HAL intends to use its new assembly line in Nashik, along with its current facilities in Bengaluru, to increase output to 24 aircraft per year.
In addition to replacing aging fleets like the MiG-21, MiG-27, and Jaguars, this expansion is intended to satisfy the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) expanding needs. Since the TEJAS has drawn attention from a number of nations in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, the increased production capabilities will also help create jobs and possibly increase defense exports.
Significant technological improvements are included in the modified TEJAS MK-1A, such as better avionics, more sophisticated radar systems, and increased weapon-carrying capacity. With the purchase of 97 more jets, the total number of TEJAS MK-1A aircraft ordered will reach 180, significantly enhancing the IAF’s operational capability and representing a significant turning point for India’s domestic fighter jet program.
In addition to enhancing the IAF’s combat capabilities, the impending purchase shows a strategic commitment to domestic defense production, technological independence, and the long-term modernization of India’s aerospace industry.
