Deliveries of the Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited may face further delays beyond June, according to reports citing defence sources. Discussions are reportedly ongoing between the Indian Air Force, HAL, and the Ministry of Defence regarding 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 believed to be open to accepting the aircraft if core combat capabilities such as weapons systems, sensors, 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. The report stated 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 features could reportedly be refined after deliveries begin. The Tejas Mk1A program is considered one of the most important indigenous fighter acquisition projects for the IAF, particularly as squadron strength continues to decline due to the retirement of older aircraft. HAL secured a major contract in 2021 for the supply of 83 Tejas Mk1A fighters, but the program has experienced repeated delays. The Tejas Mk1A incorporates significant upgrades over earlier variants, including an AESA radar, advanced electronic warfare suite, beyond-visual-range missile capability, improved maintainability, and enhanced digital flight systems. Delays have also been linked to supply chain issues, especially the late delivery of GE F404-IN20 engines from the United States, which disrupted HAL’s production schedule and affected planned induction timelines.
