Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is significantly increasing production of the indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) to meet the needs of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and support India's drive for self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has mandated that HAL deliver 12 Tejas aircraft in 2025, followed by an ambitious target of 20 aircraft annually from 2026 onwards. This directive highlights the government's commitment to the "Make in India" initiative, prioritizing domestically produced defense platforms.
The IAF has already inducted two squadrons of Tejas aircraft: No. 45 "Flying Daggers" in 2016 and No. 18 "Flying Bullets" in 2020. However, past production rates have been slower than desired due to factors such as supply chain challenges, certification processes, and the complexities of integrating advanced systems, particularly for the upgraded Mk-1A variant.
The increased production targets for 2025 and beyond demonstrate a renewed effort to address these issues and accelerate deliveries to meet the IAF's operational needs.
To achieve these goals, HAL has been actively improving its production infrastructure and supply chain management. The company has two assembly lines specifically for the Tejas – one in Bengaluru and another in Nashik. Each facility is designed to produce up to eight aircraft per year.
Furthermore, HAL has collaborated with private sector companies like Larsen & Toubro and Dynamatic Technologies. These partnerships allow for the outsourcing of sub-assembly and component manufacturing, increasing overall production speed and shortening delivery times.
HAL is also responsible for ensuring the timely availability of crucial systems for the Tejas Mk-1A. These include the EL/M-2052 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, locally developed avionics, and advanced weaponry such as the Astra air-to-air missile and the BrahMos-NG air-to-ground missile.
The MoD has stressed the importance of maintaining high quality and adhering to strict timelines, and HAL has reportedly formed a dedicated project management team to specifically oversee the Tejas production and delivery.
The 2025 target of 12 aircraft is a substantial increase from HAL's previous delivery rate of approximately 4-6 aircraft per year. Reaching this target will necessitate resolving remaining supply chain bottlenecks, especially concerning the availability of GE F-404 engines and other imported parts. Simultaneously, HAL must increase the production of domestically produced systems.
The subsequent goal of 20 aircraft annually from 2026 is in line with HAL's broader objective of reaching a production capacity of 24 aircraft per year by 2028, as stated in the company's strategic plans.
The Tejas Mk-1A represents a significant advancement over the original Mk-1, featuring improved avionics, an AESA radar, an electronic warfare suite, and enhanced weapon-carrying capabilities. The DRDO, which designed and developed the Tejas, highlights the aircraft's maneuverability, low maintenance requirements, and suitability for operations in varied environments.
By accelerating Tejas deliveries, the HAL aims to strengthen the IAF's combat capabilities while decreasing dependence on foreign imports, a core principle of the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) initiative.
