The Indian Air Force (IAF) may see an upgraded version of the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet, potentially designated as the Tejas Mk1B, incorporating advanced technologies like the indigenous Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. This development could bridge the capability gap before the more advanced Tejas Mk2 enters service.
The Tejas program, a cornerstone of India's indigenous defense production led by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is continuously evolving. While the IAF integrates the Tejas Mk1A, the potential for a Mk1B variant highlights the adaptability afforded by domestic manufacturing.
Defence journalist Anantha Krishnan M, known for his close ties to HAL, recently suggested that a Mk1B is likely. The key driver for this new variant would be the integration of the Uttam AESA radar, developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The Uttam radar is designed to significantly improve the aircraft's situational awareness and targeting capabilities, making it a far superior option than older mechanically scanned arrays. According to the DRDO, the Uttam radar has multiple modes of operation, including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and air-to-sea, making it highly versatile.
The IAF's evolving operational requirements could also lead to further iterations, potentially even a Mk1C. This reflects the iterative nature of indigenous defence programs, where real-world operational feedback directly influences design improvements and upgrades.
A significant advantage of domestic production is the ability to incorporate improvements relatively quickly. Krishnan highlighted the possibility that the final batches of the current 83 Mk1A aircraft order could even include features initially planned for the Tejas Mk2.
The Mk2, still under development, is slated to be a more advanced platform with a more powerful GE F414 engine, greater payload capacity, enhanced avionics, and improved stealth features.
Production for the Mk2 is currently projected for the late 2020s or early 2030s. Incorporating some of these advanced features into the Mk1A production line would deliver a more capable fighter to the IAF sooner.
"That's the beauty of making things at home — the freedom to upgrade, change, or discard," Krishnan emphasized. This highlights a core benefit of indigenous development: the ability to respond to changing needs without the complexities of foreign partnerships or licensing.
Ultimately, the specific designation (Mk1A, Mk1B, or Mk1C) is less important than the aircraft's capabilities. The Tejas, in any variant, is designed as a multi-role fighter capable of performing air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions, tailored to the IAF's needs.
While the prospect of a Mk1B is promising, challenges remain. Integrating new technologies requires careful planning to avoid disrupting production schedules, a known concern with HAL's production rates.
The IAF's operational needs, budgetary factors, and the prioritization of other programs like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) will also influence the development timeline.
However, the iterative approach to Tejas development offers significant long-term benefits. It has fostered a strong domestic ecosystem of suppliers, research institutions, and private sector partners, creating a solid base for continued innovation.
A Mk1B, or the incorporation of Mk2 features into later Mk1A batches, could also enhance the Tejas's export potential, showcasing it as a flexible and cost-effective platform for other air forces seeking a modern, capable fighter jet.
