Bengaluru, India – Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is making significant strides toward fulfilling its 18-aircraft Tejas Trainer order for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The state-owned aerospace company is focused on the accelerated production and delivery of these trainers, aiming to supply six aircraft by the end of the year.
Just last October, HAL delivered the first Tejas Trainer (LT-5201) to the IAF. Since then, HAL has completed preparations on two additional aircraft for delivery (LT-5202 & LT-5203).
Both these aircraft have undergone successful low-speed taxi trials, demonstrating their readiness. Furthermore, a fourth trainer (LT-5204) is in the final stages of completion.
HAL's production push extends beyond solely the trainers. The company has taken on the ambitious goal of delivering the first two Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, single-seater variants, to the IAF by April 2024.
The Tejas Mk1A, a significant upgrade to the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, features a suite of enhanced capabilities and technological advancements compared to its predecessor.
The increased production of the Tejas aircraft range highlights India's determination to boost its indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities, reducing reliance on foreign imports and solidifying the 'Make in India' initiative in the aerospace sector.