In order to solve squadron shortages and significantly boost India’s domestic air combat capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) are getting ready to finalize a major contract for 97 more TEJAS MK-1A fighter jets by the end of 2025.
Following an earlier contract for 83 MK-1A aircraft inked in 2021, this planned order, valued at almost ₹67,000 crore, demonstrates the IAF’s unwavering faith in the Tejas platform, particularly in light of its successful operational deployment in mid-2025 and current production ramp-up.
With its sophisticated avionics, cutting-edge Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, contemporary electronic warfare systems, improved maintainability, and integration of domestic weapon systems, the TEJAS MK-1A marks a significant technological advancement over the previous MK-1 variant.
India’s continuous efforts to replace aging legacy fighters like the MiG-21, MiG-23, and MiG-27 are centered on the MK-1A, which these enhancements position as a versatile multi-role aircraft that can operate both air-to-air and air-to-ground.
The Nashik plant, which recently went into operation, is anticipated to become into a significant hub for Tejas production as part of HAL’s ongoing plans to expand its manufacturing facilities in Bangalore and Nashik. By 2027, HAL hopes to increase production to 30 aircraft annually by utilizing a strong supply chain backed by Indian private sector partners like TATA Advanced Systems and L&T.
General Electric, the supplier of the F404 engines that power the MK-1A, had scheduled this scale-up to coincide with engine deliveries. With GE’s promise to provide 24 engines annually beginning in 2026, Tejas manufacturing will no longer be hindered by past delays.
If the agreement is signed as planned, the new batch’s manufacture would start in 2028, and deliveries will start in 2029 and end in 2031. This timing aligns with the IAF’s need for quick squadron augmentation in the face of regional tensions with China and Pakistan.
The IAF will be able to get closer to its approved strength of 42 squadrons from the existing 31 with the addition of these 97 planes, bringing the total TEJAS MK-1A order to 180 units. This will also be in line with the national Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) defense policy.
In addition to providing the IAF with a modern, domestic fighter fleet that can compete with the capabilities of its regional rivals, the upcoming agreement for 97 additional TEJAS MK-1A aircraft represents a significant technological and industrial milestone for India. It will also strengthen domestic defense manufacturing and supply chain resilience for upcoming projects.
The projected contract, which is expected to be finalized by the end of 2025, also highlights the Tejas program’s strategic importance in India’s defense planning for the next ten years as well as HAL’s increased production efficiency.
