India has cleared its largest-ever defense aviation order, a ₹66,500 crore deal for 97 Tejas Mk-1A fighter jets. Once signed, this will be the biggest single aircraft purchase by the Indian Air Force (IAF), marking a turning point for the country’s push toward self-reliance in defense production.
The Tejas Program
The Tejas, designed and built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is a fourth-generation, single-engine, multi-role fighter. It has been developed as part of India’s long-term effort to replace older aircraft and build an indigenous backbone for the IAF’s fleet.
This order follows an earlier contract for 83 Tejas jets. The IAF had insisted deliveries from that deal begin before the new agreement was finalized, but the defense ministry is moving ahead to meet budget timelines. HAL will manufacture and deliver all 97 aircraft under the new contract.
Boost to Atmanirbhar Bharat
The Tejas program has always been a flagship of the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. By expanding orders, India is not only strengthening its air force but also investing heavily in its aerospace ecosystem. Industry experts point out that this will lead to more jobs, higher local manufacturing capacity, and better design and testing capabilities for future projects.
Strategic Impact for the IAF
For the IAF, the expanded Tejas fleet is crucial. The new jets will replace aging MiG-21s, add advanced avionics and radar systems, and provide stronger defensive and offensive options. This upgrade is meant to enhance India’s deterrence capabilities and prepare for regional security challenges.
The Tejas Mk-1A is also seen as a stepping stone toward future indigenous aircraft such as the Tejas Mk-2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
Production Ramp-Up
HAL has committed to gradually increasing output—starting with 20 aircraft a year and later moving to 24–30. The company has already activated a third production line in Nashik to work alongside its two Bengaluru facilities, supported by private sector suppliers.
The Road Ahead
Once the ₹66,500 crore deal is signed, it will cement the Tejas as the backbone of the Indian Air Force’s fighter fleet. More importantly, it will signal India’s growing capability to design, build, and field advanced combat aircraft without relying heavily on imports.
