India has approved the acquisition of 97 Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A jets. The move will strengthen the Air Force and expand indigenous defence production.

Clearance and second order

On August 19, a high-level meeting cleared the project, defence sources told ANI. As a result, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) can now expand production of the fighter.

This is the second major order for Tejas. Earlier, the government had signed a deal for 83 jets worth about ₹48,000 crore.

Replacing MiG-21 fleet

Meanwhile, the Air Force is preparing to retire its ageing MiG-21 jets in the coming weeks. Therefore, the new Tejas fleet will step in as a replacement.

Officials stressed that the induction will not only make the Air Force stronger but also create business for hundreds of small and medium defence firms.

HAL at the centre

For decades, HAL has served as the backbone of India’s aerospace sector. Now, it stands at the core of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push to revive indigenous fighter production.

Last year, Modi flew in the Tejas trainer aircraft. Significantly, he became the first Indian prime minister to fly in a combat jet.

Indigenous features and future roadmap

The Tejas Mark 1A will carry upgraded avionics and radar. In addition, it will feature more than 65% indigenous components, officials confirmed.

Looking ahead, HAL is expected to receive contracts for over 200 Tejas Mark 2 jets. It is also preparing to produce the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Former Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari had already highlighted this expansion in 2022. At the time, he described it as a “mega boost” to domestic fighter production.

Overall, the Tejas programme has become a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and a sign of India’s growing ambition in aerospace.