Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is taking proactive steps to prepare for a potential order of 97 additional Tejas Mk1A fighter jets from the Indian Air Force (IAF), officials said at the Aero India 2025 exhibition, held at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru.
The state-owned aerospace and defence company has initiated discussions with its supply chain partners to expedite the procurement of necessary materials and equipment. This forward-looking approach is intended to ensure a smooth and rapid increase in production once the contract is officially awarded.
The anticipated order follows a previous 2021 contract, in which the IAF committed to purchasing 83 Tejas Mk1A aircraft. That initial deal was valued at over ₹48,000 crore (approximately $5.78 billion USD), with deliveries originally slated to commence in 2024, delayed now.
The new contract, estimated to be worth over ₹67,000 crore (approximately $8.07 billion USD), would bring the total number of Tejas Mk1A fighters on order to 180. This substantial increase would significantly enhance the IAF's operational capabilities and represents a major step forward for India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
HAL officials confirmed during Aero India 2025 that negotiations for the additional aircraft are proceeding positively. A company representative stated that the deal is "progressing well," with the expectation that a contract will be finalized within the coming months. This optimistic outlook is underpinned by ongoing dialogues between HAL, the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD), and the IAF, and aligns with the Indian government's "Make in India" initiative, which prioritizes indigenous defence production.
To guarantee the timely fulfillment of the potential order for 97 additional aircraft, HAL is actively collaborating with its suppliers. The official mentioned that HAL has "already commenced talks with our supply chain partners to fast-track the procurement of materials and equipment," anticipating avoiding any potential future. Such proactive measures are deemed crucial, particularly in light of past challenges faced by the Tejas program concerning supply chain constraints.
A critical element for HAL's production schedule is the reliable supply of engines. The Tejas Mk1A is powered by the GE F404 engine, manufactured by General Electric Aviation. Historically, delays in engine deliveries have impacted HAL's ability to meet its production targets. However, HAL official expressed confidence that engine supplies are projected to become consistent by 2027.
This stabilization will reportedly allow the company to reach its goal of producing 30 Tejas Mk1A aircraft annually. "GE has committed to improving delivery schedules, and we are working closely with them to ensure a steady supply," the official confirmed. This enhanced production rate, up from the current capacity of 16 aircraft per year, will involve establishing additional assembly lines, a process that HAL has already begun.
