In a significant step forward for India's ambitious indigenous fighter jet program, top officials from the Ministry of Defence, Indian Air Force, and DRDO recently convened a high-level review meeting focused on the Tejas Mk-II project.
The meeting, chaired by the Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, and attended by the Deputy Chief of Air Staff, brought together key stakeholders involved in the development of this crucial project. Participants included representatives from DRDO laboratories, Defence PSUs, CEMILAC, and NFTC, who presented comprehensive updates on the project's status, risk assessments, and mitigation strategies.
This gathering signals a renewed push towards realizing the Tejas Mk-II, also known as the Medium Weight Fighter (MWF). Sources indicate that the assembly of the first prototype is slated to commence within the next two months, with a rollout anticipated by late 2025. The much-awaited maiden flight of the aircraft is projected to take place in 2026.
The Tejas Mk-II, a significant leap from the existing HAL Tejas, boasts several enhancements. These include an elongated airframe, advanced canards for superior maneuverability, upgraded sensor and avionics systems, and a more potent engine, collectively elevating its overall capabilities.
This next-generation fighter jet is poised to replace the aging fleets of SEPECAT Jaguar, Dassault Mirage 2000, and Mikoyan MiG-29 aircraft within the Indian Air Force, underscoring its strategic importance for the country's defense capabilities.
The high-level review and the accelerated timeline reaffirm the unwavering commitment of the Indian government and the Indian Air Force to the Tejas Mk-II program. The project's advancements and the ambitious targets set for the first flight are encouraging indicators of India's growing prowess in indigenous fighter jet development, bolstering its aspirations for self-reliance in the defense sector.
