Brazil Eyes to Buy Tejas Mk1A to Replace Aging F-5 Tiger II Jets, Offers IAF to Buy Back Embraer C-390M under Barter Deal

In a move that could significantly bolster defence ties between India and Brazil, the South American nation is considering the acquisition of India's Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) as a replacement for its aging Northrop F-5 Tiger II fighter jets.

This potential deal hinges on a proposed barter arrangement, with Brazil hoping that the Indian Air Force (IAF) will select Embraer's C-390M military transport aircraft for its Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) tender.

The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) is undergoing a modernization program, with the decades-old F-5s nearing retirement. While the FAB has already inducted Saab's Gripen-E multi-role fighter, it seeks a more affordable yet capable aircraft to complement its fleet. The Tejas Mk1A, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has emerged as a strong contender.

Despite its smaller size compared to the Gripen-E, the Tejas Mk1A boasts advanced avionics, indigenous radar systems, and multirole functionality. Its agility and lower operating costs make it an attractive option for Brazil, particularly for operations in challenging terrain.

Brazil sees an opportunity to leverage the IAF's MTA tender for 60 units to secure a favorable deal for the Tejas Mk1A. By offering the C-390M, a versatile medium-lift transport aircraft well-suited for India's diverse geographical needs, Brazil aims to incentivize the IAF to reciprocate with an order for the Tejas Mk1A.

This proposed barter deal aligns with both countries' strategic objectives. For India, exporting the Tejas Mk1A would be a significant boost to its growing defence industry and its "Make in India" initiative. Brazil, in turn, would acquire a cost-effective fighter to modernize its air force while securing a valuable contract for its C-390M.

 

[Koorma]

At least the feasibility must be looked at. It can give India a break through in the export and other buyers may follow if a country like Brazil goes for Tejas.

 

[Skyfall]

Deals of such kind comes once in a decade, totally grab on but with caution on fine tuning

We are unable to supply Tejas to our own airforce yet we are considering export??

 

[Abhinav Sharma]

IAF must consider this opportunity. C-390 is a good platform for transport, AWACS and Aur Refueler. The export opportunity of Tejas will be like icing on the cake. It will also save valuable CAPEX.

 

[VedantaKiran]

The IAF needs Tejas MK1A first. Moreover GE has committed to supply only 2 engines per month. So where is the room to make more Tejas MK1A for the Brazil order?
While it would be a great branding for Tejas Mk1A program, the IAF is junking the MIGs, Jaguars squadrons in the next 3-4 yrs. So first priority should be IAF

 

[vivek manjeshwar]

If India is serious about export of Tejas, it should be so aggressive in total - I mean, 200% - indigenization of it, starting from the engine. GE engines should only be a temporary stop gap and Kaveri should be revived to match GE F-414 in like 5 years. Inias has to do WHAT IT TAKES, TO ACHIEVE THIS FEAT.

True hope we will have a stable Kaveri 2.0, in next 5 years by then we will fulfill IAF order then we can think of export. If we get GE414 with 80%, TOT and consent to sell we can export Tejas mk2 after 5 years. I am optimistic about Tejas mk2 export option.

 

[Sanjay Sharotri]

AEW&C roles Embraer. Just what the doctor ordered. Plus HAL production platform will be kept busy. Plus entry into South America market.

 

[Muthukumar Ponnambalam]

True hope we will have a stable Kaveri 2.0, in next 5 years by then we will fulfill IAF order then we can think of export. If we get GE414 with 80%, TOT and consent to sell we can export Tejas mk2 after 5 years. I am optimistic about Tejas mk2 export option.

Not sure if MOD has any plans for reviving Kaveri. Going thru' various news articles, my anxiety and tension shoots up, if Kaveri is going to be put to rest successfully, to sit shamelessly on GE's shoulders firmly, despite its repeated history of humiliation.

 

[vivek manjeshwar]

Not sure if MOD has any plans for reviving Kaveri. Going thru' various news articles, my anxiety and tension shoots up, if Kaveri is going to be put to rest successfully, to sit shamelessly on GE's shoulders firmly, despite its repeated history of humiliation.

Then only option left is start co development with French snecma m88 - 3/4 or with Roles Royce for new engine to power AMCA 2nd batch. That means we may have to drop the idea of exporting Tejas Mk1A. Tejas mk2 that too after a decade.

 

[Amit]

if Embraer is good we should go ahead with this deal..this is a win win situation for both India and Brazil...and once Tejas bags first order other countries will follow suit..