A.P. Singh, chief of the air staff, spoke at a seminar titled “ Aeronautics 2047“. He stressed the importance of timely delivery of combat aircraft to ensure the IAF remains operationally ready in a rapidly changing security environment. This occasion also marked 25 years of successful flight of the LCA Tejas, a major milestone in India’s defense aviation journey. It is a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
LCA Tejas
Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is a fourth-generation, single engine, multirole fighter aircraft. It is designed by Aeronautical development agency (ADA). It is the part of India’s long-term goal of Indigenous defense production. As of early 2026, the program is entering its most ambitious phase with the rollout of the Mark 2 variant and the stabilization of the Mark 1A production lines. It serves as a steppingstone for the AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft), India’s upcoming 5th-generation stealth fighter.
The Tejas is known for being the smallest and lightest supersonic fighter in its class, featuring a “compound delta” wing design that provides high maneuverability. If the Mk1A is a replacement for the aging MiG-21, the Mk2 is designed to replace the heavier Mirage 2000 and Jaguar fleets. It bridges the gap between light fighters and the future 5th-generation AMCA stealth jet. It has over 5,600 successful flight trials and it include participation of 100+ institutions, including government laboratories, Academic Institutions, and Defense industries.
Advanced Indigenous technologies in Tejas
The LCA Tejas incorporates several cutting-edge technologies, making it a modern combat aircraft:
- Carbon composites and lightweight materials which better strength to weight ratio.
- Fly by wire flight control system which improves maneuverability and safety.
- Glass cockpit is digital display for pilots.
- digital utility management system is efficient aircraft operations.
- Engine: General Electric F404-IN20 (85 kN thrust).
- Speed: Mach 1.6+ (approx. 2,000 km/h).
- Combat Range: ~500 km (extendable via mid-air refueling).
- Avionics: Indigenous Uttam AESA Radar and an integrated Digital Flight Control Computer (DFCC).
- Hardpoints: 9 points for carrying weapons like the Astra BVR missile, BrahMos-NG (planned), and laser-guided bombs.
Recent developments
DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir Kamat confirmed in January 2026 that the Tejas Mk2 is scheduled for its maiden flight in June-July 2026. This version will replace aging fleets of Mirage 2000s and Jaguars. India is expected to finalize a deal with the U.S. by March 2026 for the 80% Transfer of Technology (ToT) for GE-F414 engines, which will power the Mk2.While HAL has set up a third production line in Nasik, deliveries to the Indian Air Force have faced slight delays due to global supply chain issues regarding GE engines. However, production is scaling to 16–24 aircraft per year.Countries including Brazil, the Philippines, and Nigeria have expressed interest. A potential “swap deal” with Brazil (Tejas for Embraer transport aircraft) is currently a major point of discussion in defense circles.
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