Revolutionizing India’s Air Power: IAF’s Ambitious Plan to Induct Indigenous Tejas Fighters

Revolutionizing India
Revolutionizing India

In a significant move aimed at bolstering its fleet of indigenous fighters, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively considering the induction of the domestically manufactured Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.

IAF sources have revealed that there is a strong desire within the force to bring in approximately 100 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighters, and this plan is currently under development within the IAF.

This proposal is slated for presentation to the government and is part of the IAF’s overarching strategy to enhance its reliance on indigenous combat platforms. The objective is twofold: not only to augment the capabilities of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to sustain its production lines but also to incorporate more domestically produced combat systems. These newly acquired aircraft are intended to replace the aging MiG-21 fighter squadrons.

Upon the successful completion of this order over the stipulated 15-year period, the IAF will be equipped with a fleet comprising 40 LCA Tejas, over 180 LCA Mark-1A variants, and no less than 120 LCA Mark-2 aircraft. This decision follows a comprehensive review of the LCA program by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, during a meeting at Air Headquarters.

Also in attendance were senior officials from the defense ministry, DRDO, HAL, and ADA.

The Air Chief Marshal highlighted that the LCA program is emblematic of the IAF’s commitment to indigenizing its aircraft inventory. He emphasized the necessity for all stakeholders to adopt a collaborative approach to ensure the success of this nationally significant project.

The initial indigenous LCA was inducted in July 2016 by the No 45 Squadron of the IAF, famously known as the ‘Flying Daggers.’ Over the years, this squadron transitioned from Vampires to Gnats and subsequently to the MiG-21 Bis before being equipped with Tejas aircraft.

Tejas stands as a versatile platform designed to undertake roles in Air Defense, Maritime Reconnaissance, and precision strike missions. The LCA Mk-1A variant will feature upgraded avionics, an advanced electronically steered radar, an enhanced electronic warfare suite, and the capability to launch beyond visual range missiles. This new iteration will have the capability to engage targets from extended stand-off distances.

During the review, HAL representatives assured the Chief of Air Staff of the punctual delivery of the contracted twin-seater variants in the coming months. In addition to the LCA Mk 1, the IAF contracted for 83 LCA Mk-1A aircraft in 2021. The Chairman & Managing Director of HAL assured those present that deliveries of this advanced LCA variant would commence by February 2024.

These Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mk-1A fighters are intended to replace the aging MiG-21 fighter jet squadrons within the Indian Air Force. Upon the completion of the most recent order within the stipulated 15-year timeframe, the IAF will boast a formidable fleet comprising 40 LCA Tejas, over 180 LCA Mark-1A variants, and at least 120 LCA Mark-2 aircraft. The journey began with the induction of the first indigenous LCA in July 2016, under the banner of the No 45 IAF Squadron.

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