HAL Confirms Tejas Mk2 Structural Assembly Progressing Smoothly, Reinforces A Steadfast Commitment to 2026 Prototype Rollout

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has officially confirmed that the structural assembly of the first Tejas Mk2 prototype is proceeding as planned.

The announcement underscores a firm commitment to rolling out the advanced aircraft by 2026, a significant step forward in India's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.

The update was provided by HAL's Chairman, Dr. DK Sunil, during the Paris Air Show.

The Tejas Mk2 is being developed as a more capable, medium-weight successor to the Tejas Mk1 and Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).

This next-generation fighter is designed with significant upgrades, including a more powerful General Electric F414 engine, which will enable it to carry a larger payload of up to 6,500 kg.

Further enhancements include a longer airframe, close-coupled canards for improved aerodynamic performance, and an advanced indigenous avionics suite, featuring the Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and a sophisticated electronic warfare system.

This ambitious project holds immense strategic value for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Tejas Mk2 is slated to replace the aging fleets of Jaguar, Mirage 2000, and MiG-29 fighter jets, thereby modernising India's aerial combat assets.

The development, which received official sanction from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), is crucial for maintaining a technological edge and bolstering national air defence.

The successful progression of the Tejas Mk2 is a testament to the collaborative efforts within India's defence ecosystem.

The project is led by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) as the lead designer, with HAL serving as the principal partner for manufacturing. This synergy is pivotal in achieving the program's objectives and strengthening India's goal of self-reliance in critical defence technology.

 

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[Mayank393]

At next year’s airshow, they’ll proudly announce that ‘progress is steady’—as always—and HAL will definitely roll out the aircraft in 2027… just like they’ve been saying every year. What’s another delay when you’ve mastered the art of moving deadlines instead of aircraft?

 

[AJS]

“Steadfast commitment”… we have heard that before. HAL has no problem lying through its teeth. Even after the IAF chief administered a shameful public dressing down HAL keeps releasing these unbelievable false promises that they cannot keep due to their incompetence and lack of accountability or commitment, as proven many times over the decades.

Tejas 2 is a matter of vital importance for India’s national security and will be the actual culmination of the indigenous effort to build a fighter (Tejas 1 / 1A represent only a very limited success as they are underpowered and lack range & endurance). Government should ensure that Tejas 2 does not fall victim to HAL’s sloth. Roping in the private sector to build at least half of the projected numbers of Tejas 2 is essential, to secure our skies and also to improve the quality of our aerospace industry.

 

[Shankar]

LCA tejas mk 2 should be limited production only to meet immediate requirement for next 5 years to 10 years. But all efforts should be to make the LCA to 5th generation fighter and all efforts to scale up technology innovations should be the primary goal and get the necessary stealth technology. Why not get brilliant IIT graduate and make a top notch team and pay adequate compensation to bring innovation to this field. It's a matter of pride for us.