HAL Seeks to Roll Out Tejas Mk2 Prototype Quietly Without Public Spectacle Later This Year, Focusing on Rigorous Testing and Performance Evaluations

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is poised to unveil the prototype of the highly anticipated Tejas Mk2 fighter jet later this year, likely between November and December.

However, breaking with tradition, HAL has opted for a subdued rollout, eschewing the usual fanfare and public spectacle associated with such events. Sources at Aero India 2025 have confirmed that the rollout will be a closed-door affair, with neither media nor VIPs in attendance.

This departure from customary practice underscores HAL's prioritization of operational readiness and performance over ceremonial events. The rollout is being viewed primarily as a technical milestone, marking the commencement of a rigorous testing regime. The focus is on ensuring the Tejas Mk2 meets the stringent requirements of a modern, multi-role fighter aircraft.

Following the rollout, the Tejas Mk2 will undergo a series of critical tests. Initially, engine ground runs will be conducted to assess the performance and reliability of the aircraft's powerplant. Successful completion of these tests will pave the way for taxi trials, which will evaluate the seamless integration of all systems during ground movement.

Sources indicate that HAL is aiming for the Tejas Mk2's maiden flight to take place before mid-2026. This timeline allows for meticulous preparation and testing, ensuring that the aircraft meets all safety and performance benchmarks before taking to the skies.

The period between the rollout and the first flight will be dedicated to the integration and testing of all onboard systems, including avionics, flight controls, and weapon systems. HAL is committed to ensuring that every component is flight-ready and functions flawlessly.

While the rollout itself will be a low-key event, HAL plans to organize a more significant event following the successful completion of the first flight and subsequent test phases. This event will likely involve the media and key stakeholders, showcasing the Tejas Mk2's capabilities and highlighting the progress of India's indigenous fighter jet program.

The Tejas Mk2 is expected to be a significant leap forward from its predecessor, the Tejas Mk1. With enhanced capabilities, including a more powerful engine, advanced avionics, and an increased payload capacity, the Tejas Mk2 is poised to play a crucial role in the Indian Air Force's modernization efforts.

 

[Kanhoji Angre]

Which Engine is going to be used now for this New Tejas MK-2 is not clear

 

[beencensured]

Come on, do some pomp and show, after all, you want to sell to the international market. Please do no secret rollouts.

 

[Deepak Hegde]

Good news and bad news - The good news is the IAF chief's public statement about lack of confidence in HAL seems to be working. The bad news is that HAL has sensed further delays to Tejas MK-II and is now trying to cover it to avoid any further public flogging, any high profile VIP, by trying to avoid their presence at the prototype rollout !!

 

[alpha numeric]

I am glad that they are taking it seriously. We do tend to love cheap theatrics to compensate for our shortcomings. our adversaries have demonstrated considerable leap in technical progress while we have been less than disappointing.

 

[Drhaze]

Come on, do some pomp and show, after all, you want to sell to the international market. Please do no secret rollouts.

Call modi ji again. Would be great. But I am sure they are worried about the opposition going all hal bad cuz modi.

 

[Bks98]

HAL/ADA engineers and management are now under pressure as they are exposed of delaying everything.

 

[Foxbat]

There is nothing to shout about doing away with the ceremonial ribbon cutting during roll out of Tejas Mk2 Prototype Quietly Without Public Spectacles. The most critical issues at the moment are, plan your schedules on the procurement of sub assemblies from your vendors in tandem with your timelines and stick to the planned aircraft production schedules. Learn from the past where Tejas Mk1 and Mk1A engine were delayed much earlier than GE's delay due to global supply chain issues but HAL failed to aggressively pursue on the delays.

 

[Madan]

HAL has been doing theatrics only till now. They aren't serious about their business as there is no competition for them. Put some private company to manufacture the Tejas. IAF needs to put its foot down hard for giving any further orders to this good for nothing company named HAL (The old sarkari company style). Why Government is overlooking it? Give a hard kick in their teeth to shake them up a bit.

 

[Muthu.Kumar]

In fact they should've practiced this from the beginning, containing the amount of news, so as not to attract foreign eyes.

I appreciate China on that matter, that it made sure not to leak anything about its defense research. Blocking Google etc were fantastic efforts.

India has a long long long way to go, learning from China

 

[Kri42shna]

Hello everyone especially to those who write comments, I have come across many comments say this and that. Today if suppose I write something which someone will like or hate.
But today I have realised that the world is full of curiosity where everyone wants to know what is happening in X's house. Though someone isn't a member of that house but he or she is eagerly interested in what is happening in X's house.
I just want to share that who reads my perception and understands my words will never ever write comments which is not at all necessary. So please don't share your thinking, just realise what is happening .

 

[Prem Jain]

It’s a good decision to rollout the aircraft without much fanfare and medias will highlight the negatives only.Just like appreciating the Chinese drones than Indian made ones. Let the final product come out with surprise.
We will have to see whether GE will keep its promises to supply engines in time or else we may have to wait for Kaveri is to be seen. Anyhow it’s a appropriate decision. All the best HAL

 

[nivas9531]

This is the first time that any diffence achievement gogged to public.
Bjp doing everything is a secret like kumbh deaths, and Delhi rail station deaths
Now there is nothing information go to public which is boasted by government and godi media is to be ultimate truth
India is sinking into a blackhole of dictator ship.