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The second Tejas Mk1A fighter jet, identified as LA-5034, has successfully completed its first flight in Bengaluru, marking a significant milestone in India's indigenous aircraft development program. This achievement underscores the progress being made by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in manufacturing these advanced fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
HAL is reportedly on track to deliver the first two Tejas Mk1A aircraft to the IAF by March 2025, fulfilling its commitment to meet the IAF's delivery schedule. This development follows the successful maiden flight of the first Tejas Mk1A, further demonstrating the program's momentum.
The Tejas Mk1A boasts several improvements over its predecessor, the Tejas Mk1, including an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, enhanced avionics, beyond visual range (BVR) missile capabilities, and upgraded electronic warfare systems. These enhancements collectively provide the IAF with a more capable and versatile fighter jet, crucial for modern air combat scenarios.
The successful flight of LA-5034 not only highlights HAL's progress in production but also emphasizes the IAF's dedication to strengthening its fighter squadrons. With India facing regional security challenges, the timely induction of these advanced aircraft is of paramount importance. The Tejas Mk1A is poised to play a vital role in replacing the aging fleet of MiG-21s and bolstering the IAF's operational readiness.
This project's advancement aligns with the IAF's goal of increasing its squadron strength to the authorized level, which is currently below par. Moreover, the Tejas Mk1A, with its increased indigenous content, supports India's broader strategic objective of self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative. The Tejas program is a testament to India's growing aerospace capabilities and its commitment to strengthening national defence.
