Tue Jun 24 10:35:51 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to deliver at least six Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) to the Indian Air Force (IAF) by March 2026. Delays were caused by GE Aerospace’s inability to deliver F404 engines on schedule. HAL Chairman D.K. Sunil stated that six aircraft are ready and that GE Aerospace is expected to supply 12 engines in the current fiscal year. Despite past COVID-related production issues and personnel departures at GE, those issues have been resolved. HAL has a deal for 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets and is awaiting approval for 97 more. The IAF needs the Tejas to replace its aging MiG-21s and boost its dwindling fighter squadron numbers. The Tejas Mk-1A is a multi-role fighter with advanced avionics and weapons systems. Several countries have expressed interest in purchasing the Tejas.

**News Article:**

**IAF to Receive Tejas Fighter Jets by March 2026 After Engine Delay Resolved**

**New Delhi, June 24, 2025** – The Indian Air Force (IAF) is expected to receive at least six Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) by March 2026, according to D.K. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The delivery schedule for the LCA Mk-1A variant was delayed due to GE Aerospace’s inability to supply F404 engines on time.

In an exclusive interview, Mr. Sunil stated that GE Aerospace is expected to deliver 12 engines within the current fiscal year. “I can assure you that as of today, six aircraft are ready. There is no let up from our side. We are building those aircraft and getting them ready and we will be in a position to deliver by this fiscal,” he said.

The delay was attributed to production timelines falling behind during the Covid pandemic and subsequent supply chain bottlenecks at GE Aerospace. Mr. Sunil has confirmed that these issues have been resolved.

The Indian government has allocated ₹48,000 crore for the procurement of 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets and is in the process of procuring 97 more at a cost of around ₹67,000 crore. The LCA is intended to replace the IAF’s aging MiG-21 fighters and address the decline in the number of fighter squadrons.

The Tejas Mk-1A is a single-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft capable of operating in high-threat air environments. It is designed for air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and strike roles, and equipped with advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, and an array of missiles. Mr. Sunil emphasized the Tejas Mk-1A is a “world-class aircraft” and a “very potent platform.”

HAL is also exploring export opportunities for the Tejas, with several countries expressing interest.

Read More