Deliveries of the Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited may face further delays beyond June, according to reports citing defence sources. Ongoing discussions between the Indian Air Force, HAL, and the Ministry of Defence are reportedly focused on the aircraft’s operational readiness and the possibility of inducting the jets with limited concessions on certain non-critical systems during the initial phase. The IAF is said to be open to accepting the aircraft if essential combat capabilities such as weapons systems, radar, and electronic warfare functions are fully operational, even if some advanced automation features are not yet completely mature. Any such arrangement would likely require modifications to existing contractual agreements under the Ministry of Defence. Reports suggest that the IAF’s primary concern is ensuring the aircraft remains operationally effective and combat-ready from the first day of service. Some advanced electronic warfare management functions could reportedly be refined after deliveries begin. The Tejas Mk1A program is considered one of India’s most important indigenous fighter acquisition projects, especially as older fighter aircraft continue retiring from service and squadron strength declines. HAL had signed a major contract in 2021 for the delivery of 83 Tejas Mk1A jets, but the project has experienced repeated delays. The Tejas Mk1A incorporates major upgrades over earlier variants, including an AESA radar, advanced electronic warfare suite, beyond-visual-range missile capability, improved maintainability, and digital flight enhancements. Delays have also been linked to supply chain issues, particularly the late delivery of GE F404-IN20 engines from the United States, which disrupted HAL’s production schedule and impacted delivery timelines.
