TEJAS MK-1A Set for First Delivery to IAF by October: New Specifications and Software Upgrades Finalized
In a significant boost for the Indian Air Force (IAF), the first of the 83 TEJAS MK-1A fighter jets ordered is poised for delivery by the end of October. This marks a crucial development as the IAF works to address its dwindling fighter jet numbers.
The delivery has been slightly delayed from the initial schedule due to necessary updates and adjustments. Recent modifications included completing iterations on Israeli software integrated into the TEJAS MK-1A, with final testing now underway. These updates are essential for enhancing the aircraft's operational capabilities and ensuring it meets the latest standards.
The first TEJAS MK-1A aircraft will be equipped with Category-B engines. These engines, which are reserve units from previous transactions with General Electric (GE), are being utilized temporarily. The new, state-of-the-art General Electric F404-IN20 engines are expected to arrive starting in November, following delays addressed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during his recent visit to Washington.
Originally, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) aimed to begin deliveries in March 2024 as part of a contract signed with the IAF in February 2021. However, delays in the aircraft's first flight, which only occurred in March, necessitated additional trials before delivery.
The TEJAS MK-1A is an upgraded version of the TEJAS fighter, which has faced a long and winding development path. The program began in 1983 with the goal of producing an indigenous aircraft by 1994, but the first prototype only took to the skies in 2001. Initial Operational Clearance was granted in December 2013, with the final clearance for the first aircraft in 2019. The IAF has received 36 of these earlier models, with four more still pending delivery.
The MK-1A variant, which emerged from a 2015 agreement during Manohar Parrikar's tenure as Defence Minister, includes several enhancements over the original TEJAS. These improvements feature advanced electronic radar, enhanced communication systems, additional combat capabilities with Beyond Visual Range Missiles, and upgraded maintenance features.
Looking ahead, the IAF plans to order 97 more TEJAS MK-1A aircraft. To meet this demand and future production needs, the IAF has proposed a public-private partnership model to expand production capabilities. The goal is to establish multiple production lines to accommodate the anticipated induction of nearly 300 TEJAS fighters over the next fifteen years.
Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhary emphasized the need for diversified production approaches to match the IAF's requirements, highlighting the potential for increased collaboration with private partners to enhance manufacturing efficiency and output.
This upcoming delivery represents a crucial step in bolstering India's air combat capabilities and showcases the ongoing progress and adaptation within the TEJAS program.
