In a major push to bolster India’s air combat capability, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a landmark contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the supply of 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft to the Indian Air Force (IAF). The deal, valued at ₹62,370 crore (pre-tax), includes 68 fighter variants and 29 twin-seat trainer versions, along with associated avionics, support systems, and equipment.
Deliveries under the contract are slated to begin in 2027–28 and are expected to be completed over six years. The order comes at a time when the IAF is facing a depleting fighter fleet, a challenge that the government seeks to address through enhanced indigenous production.
As per MoD sources, the new jets will feature over 64% indigenous content, including 67 new domestically developed systems. Key upgrades include the integration of the Uttam AESA Radar, the Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic warfare system, and revised control actuation systems. The project is estimated to engage 105 Indian suppliers and generate approximately 11,750 direct and indirect jobs annually during the production period.
This contract builds on a previous order signed in 2021 for 83 Tejas Mk1A jets, taking the total commitment to 180 aircraft. The enhanced order underscores the government’s commitment to the Make in India and Atmanirbharta initiatives, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign defense imports.
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. HAL has faced delays in engine deliveries—especially the GE F404 engines vital for Tejas—which have hampered earlier rollouts of the Mk1A models. The MoD has called for accelerated timelines and improved coordination with suppliers to ensure the audacious delivery schedule is met.
The move is widely seen as a strategic stepping stone for India’s defense modernization, aiming to bridge the gap left by retiring legacy platforms like the MiG-21 and strengthen the IAF’s operational readiness in a tense regional landscape.