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State-owned aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to significantly boost its manufacturing capabilities, aiming to produce 24 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets annually from 2027.
This increased output capacity is linked to the anticipated clearance of an additional order for 97 more units of the advanced light combat aircraft by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD). This prospective order would supplement an existing 2021 contract for 83 Tejas Mk1A jets.
The push to ramp up production highlights HAL's dedication to strengthening India's indigenous defence manufacturing sector, a key goal of the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) initiative.
To facilitate this enhanced production rate, HAL has operationalised a third assembly line at its facility in Nashik, Maharashtra. This new line is projected to contribute eight aircraft per year, complementing the 16 units annually produced at its two existing facilities in Bangalore. This strategic expansion is designed to ensure HAL can meet the IAF's increasing requirements for the Tejas Mk1A.
Tejas Mk1A is an upgraded version of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), featuring significantly improved avionics, advanced radar systems, and enhanced weapon-carrying capabilities. The addition of the Nashik line is a crucial step in scaling up to meet the demands of the armed forces.
Furthermore, HAL has outlined contingency plans to partner with private sector firms for the assembly of certain aircraft sections. This collaborative approach would be implemented if the IAF necessitates an annual production figure exceeding the planned 24 jets.
Such a strategy indicates HAL's proactive stance on scalability and its intention to harness the capabilities within India’s burgeoning private defence industry to ensure accelerated delivery schedules can be met. This public-private partnership model is increasingly being encouraged to build a robust national defence industrial base.
The Tejas Mk1A aircraft is a vital element in the IAF's ongoing modernisation program. It is slated to replace older aircraft fleets, such as the MiG-21s, and augment the force's combat readiness with its versatile multi-role capabilities, suitable for both air-to-air combat and air-to-ground attack missions.
Should the anticipated order for an additional 97 units receive final approval, the total number of Tejas Mk1A jets on order would reach 180. This would provide a substantial boost to the IAF's operational strength and significantly expand HAL's production portfolio, marking a major milestone for India's indigenous fighter jet program.
