- Views: 544
- Replies: 12

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is making significant strides in expanding its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A production capabilities, with the Nashik plant gearing up for the rollout of its first locally manufactured aircraft by the end of November 2024.
This marks a pivotal moment in the Tejas program, establishing Nashik as the third production line dedicated to the LCA-Tejas Mk1A variant. Currently, two production lines are operational at the Bengaluru facility, with a combined annual capacity of 16 aircraft.
HAL's strategic approach involves producing an initial batch of five LCA-Tejas Mk1A jets at the Nashik plant. This initial phase will lay the groundwork for potential future expansion, with the aim of increasing Nashik's production to eight aircraft per year.
Simultaneously, HAL is actively ramping up production at its existing LCA production lines in Bengaluru. These facilities are projected to achieve a combined production capacity of 16 units per year starting in 2025-26.
By leveraging the combined output from both Nashik and Bengaluru, HAL is poised to significantly augment its Tejas Mk1A production capacity. This move is expected to meet the growing demand of the Indian Air Force (IAF) for this indigenously developed fighter jet.
HAL's ambitious plans include boosting production to 24 units per year by 2026-27. Furthermore, the company is exploring the possibility of increasing production to 30 units annually, driven by anticipated future orders of 97 units from the IAF.
This strategic expansion of LCA-Tejas Mk1A production underscores HAL's commitment to strengthening India's indigenous defence capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign imports. The increased production capacity will also play a vital role in modernizing the IAF's fleet and enhancing its operational readiness.