Tejas Mk1A fighter jet induction nears as engine shortages resolve

The induction of the LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jets into the Indian Air Force is expected to proceed following the resolution of engine supply shortages. Vice Chief Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit stated that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has confirmed that the primary cause of previous delays—the supply of engines from the United States—has been addressed, and the engines have now been installed on the aircraft.

Currently, the jets are undergoing intensive testing to ensure they meet all operational, safety, and technical requirements. Dixit noted that only two or three technical points remain to be resolved, which are expected to be cleared within one to two months. The Mk1A is an advanced version of the Tejas family, featuring upgraded avionics, improved radar systems, and enhanced weapon capabilities, including AESA radar and Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile capacity.

In a separate milestone, HAL has completed the delivery of the final Tejas Mk1 Trainer aircraft, fulfilling contracts dating back to 2006 and 2010. This brings the total number of Tejas Mk1 aircraft received by the Indian Air Force to 40. While the original Mk1 program is concluding, the focus has shifted to the large-scale production of the Mk1A to address the Indian Air Force's ongoing fighter squadron shortages.