Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) marked a significant advancement in India's indigenous military aviation capabilities with the official rollout of the seventh Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A variant on March 25, 2025.
The aircraft, identified by the serial number LA-5039, represents the latest addition to the enhanced Mk1A series being produced for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
This rollout occurred just over twelve months after the maiden flight of the first Tejas Mk1A (serial number LA-5033), indicating a steady manufacturing rhythm despite reported supply chain hurdles, including delays in engine deliveries.
Earlier this year, during the Aero India 2025 exhibition, state-owned HAL had already presented five completed Tejas Mk1A jets poised for delivery, showcasing its preparedness for serial production. The completion of the seventh aircraft, LA-5039, so soon after the first flight highlights HAL's improving ability to accelerate manufacturing.
Successfully navigating challenges, such as securing timely delivery of the General Electric F404 engines that power the jet, points towards efficient management within the production program.
The Tejas Mk1A itself is a more advanced version of the initial Tejas Mk1, incorporating significant upgrades like an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, an updated electronic warfare suite, and enhanced combat capabilities.
In parallel with the single-seat Mk1A fighter production, HAL continues to manufacture the twin-seat Tejas Trainer aircraft. These trainer variants play a crucial role in preparing IAF pilots to operate the Tejas fleet effectively during operational missions.
Managing both the fighter and trainer production lines concurrently demonstrates HAL's capacity to handle complex manufacturing schedules, contributing significantly to India's self-reliance goals in the aerospace and defence sectors.
Looking forward, HAL is expanding its production footprint. The company's facility in Nashik, Maharashtra, is scheduled to complete its first Tejas Mk1A aircraft next month.
Integrating the Nashik plant into the production process is a strategic move aimed at decentralizing manufacturing and significantly increasing the overall production rate. This expansion is vital for fulfilling the IAF's current order of 83 Tejas Mk1A jets, secured through a contract valued at approximately ₹48,000 crore signed in February 2021.
There are expectations of further orders from the IAF as it seeks to modernize its fleet with domestically produced aircraft.
