Tejas Mk2 Prototype Reaches 70% Assembly as Pre-Flight Calibration Begins, Rollout Targeted for Late March or April

The development of India’s next-generation fighter, the Tejas Mk2, has reached a transformative stage.

Recent reports indicate that the first prototype is approximately 70% complete, allowing the programme to transition into the critical pre-flight calibration phase.

A formal rollout of the aircraft is now anticipated to take place between late March and April 2026.

Technical Milestones and Assembly Progress​

The current calibration phase is a rigorous technical requirement designed to validate the aircraft's core systems before it ever leaves the ground.

Engineers at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are currently focused on:

• Flight Control Laws: Testing the digital "brain" of the jet to ensure stable handling.
• Structural Integrity: Conducting stress assessments to verify the airframe's durability.
• Fuel System Verification: Exhaustive checks to ensure leak-proof and efficient fuel delivery.

While the integration of major components—including the forward fuselage, centre fuselage, and wings—has been successfully completed in Bengaluru, the project did encounter minor setbacks.

These were primarily attributed to the delayed delivery of specific parts from private sector partners, though the assembly has now regained its momentum.

The Path to Maiden Flight​

Following the official rollout this spring, the prototype will move immediately into high-speed taxi trials. these tests are vital for evaluating the aircraft's braking systems, steering, and stability while moving at high velocities on the runway.

If these ground evaluations proceed without the need for significant modifications, the Tejas Mk2 is projected to take its first flight approximately six to eight months after the rollout.

Current estimates from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) suggest a maiden flight window between June and July 2026, though some manufacturing projections extend into early 2027.

A Medium-Weight Leap​

The Tejas Mk2, often referred to as the Medium Weight Fighter (MWF), represents a significant evolution over the existing Tejas Mk1A.

Unlike its predecessor, the Mk2 is designed to replace ageing legacy fleets such as the Jaguar, Mirage 2000, and MiG-29.

Feature	Tejas Mk1A	Tejas Mk2 (Projected)
Weight Class	Light-weight (13.5 tonnes)	Medium-weight (17.5 tonnes)
Engine	GE F404 (84 kN thrust)	GE F414 (98 kN thrust)
Payload Capacity	3.5 Tonnes	6.5 Tonnes
Weapon Hardpoints	7	11

The aircraft will be powered by the more robust General Electric F414-INS6 engine.

To further bolster India's defence self-reliance, the jet will also feature the indigenous Uttam AESA Radar and an advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) suite, making it a formidable 4.5-generation multi-role platform.

 

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[Ammoman]

Rollout in March 2026. Bullshit.

The 1A is 6 months minimum from completion of weapon integration.

The babus have no problem lying to the people of India.