Thu Feb 05 12:27:07 UTC 2026: # HAL Ready to Deliver Five Tejas Mk-1A Aircraft, Faces Engine Supply Delays
The Story:
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) announced on Thursday, February 5, 2026, that five Tejas Mark 1A light combat aircraft are fully ready for delivery to the Indian Air Force (IAF). This follows a ₹48,000 crore deal with HAL in February 2021 for 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets. However, the delivery is facing delays due to missed deadlines from GE Aerospace for the supply of aero engines.
Key Points:
- HAL confirms five Tejas Mk-1A aircraft are fully ready for delivery.
- An additional nine aircraft are built and flown, awaiting GE engines.
- Delivery delays stem from GE Aerospace’s missed engine supply deadlines.
- HAL has received five engines from GE to date, with a positive future delivery outlook.
- The IAF aims to induct these warplanes to address a reduction in fighter squadrons, down to 30 from a sanctioned strength of 42.
- The aircrafts are designed to undertake air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and strike roles.
Key Takeaways:
- India’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities are progressing with the readiness of the Tejas Mk-1A aircraft.
- Reliance on foreign suppliers, specifically GE Aerospace, for critical components like engines remains a vulnerability, impacting delivery schedules.
- The IAF urgently needs to replenish its fighter squadrons, highlighting the strategic importance of timely aircraft delivery.
- HAL is actively working to mitigate delays and maintain projected delivery timelines.
First Piper 