ADA Confirms Accelerated Development Trials for Tejas Mk2, Focusing on Core Systems Validation, Aiming Late 2025 Prototype Debut

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has announced a fast-tracked development plan for the Tejas Mk2 fighter aircraft, with the first prototype expected to roll out in late 2025.

This ambitious timeline, revealed at the pre-Aero India 2025 conference, aims to bring the indigenously developed aircraft into production by late 2028 or early 2029.

ADA officials outlined a focused approach to developmental trials, concentrating on validating the aircraft's core avionics and flight characteristics. This streamlined strategy aims to ensure the Tejas Mk2 meets performance specifications efficiently, paving the way for swift production approval.

In a collaborative effort to expedite the process, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will take the lead on weapons testing and integration. This division of responsibilities allows ADA to dedicate its resources to perfecting the aircraft's fundamental flight performance and avionics systems, potentially shortening the overall testing duration.

With a projected order of 120 units to be fulfilled by 2035 or early 2036, the Tejas Mk2 program is poised to be a cornerstone of the IAF's modernization efforts.

Production is anticipated to reach a rate of 18 units per year scaling up as the manufacturing process matures. This will enable the IAF to gradually integrate the Tejas Mk2 into its fleet, replacing older aircraft and bolstering India's air power capabilities.

The Tejas Mk2 represents a significant step in India's pursuit of self-reliance in defence technology. By prioritizing domestic development and production, the program aims to reduce dependence on foreign-made fighter jets and strengthen the nation's defence industrial base

This ambitious project is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Indian Air Force over the coming decade.

 

[T54]

The initial order itself Should be increased to over 200 so that Large medium and small companies get involved and a production run of over 36-48 aircraft be planned to complete induction by 2036-38

 

[atuls1590]

Don't you think without indigenously developed engine MK2 program will also find the same fate as Tejas MK1A. I doubt the success of all HAL developed planes untill unless it uses the indigenously developed jet engine.

 

[S.K.Bakshi]

Very much possible. Depending upon one supplier is suicidal. Must find some alternative engine for alignment to Mark 2. The fate of indigenous jet engine is not yet clear.

 

[abhinav srivastava]

Neither its prototype is rolled out yet nor has its first flight happened. If it will enter production in 2029 then scrap MRFA. Invest in additional capacities at HAL and at GE F414 production units. Produce @30 Tejas Mk2's per year from 2030 onward. For it to be produced in 2030, the order should be placed at least 3 years ago. But they know these are not realistic timelines.

 

[Anant]

Neither its prototype is rolled out yet nor has its first flight happened. If it will enter production in 2029 then scrap MRFA. Invest in additional capacities at HAL and at GE F414 production units. Produce @30 Tejas Mk2's per year from 2030 onward. For it to be produced in 2030, the order should be placed at least 3 years ago. But they know these are not realistic timelines.

It won't, Sir. As it so happens, a first flight is only likely in the second half of 2026, which means that even with an expedited testing regimen, the aircraft won't be ready to enter service until 2030-32 at the earliest.

 

[Dredd]

It won't, Sir. As it so happens, a first flight is only likely in the second half of 2026, which means that even with an expedited testing regimen, the aircraft won't be ready to enter service until 2030-32 at the earliest.

Second prototype onwards LCA mk2 design is going to be changed as first has encountered some design related issues in static test. This will definitely have impact in timelines.

 

[Rinku Pandey]

Under the visionary leadership of Modiji, DRDO, HAL & ADA are flying. Soon we will have Mk1A and MK2 in required quantities. Engine supply chain will be sorted once Modiji meets Trumpji later this week. Way to go!