Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) chief C B Ananthakrishnan said that the first TEJAS MK-1A will be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) by February 2024. The last TEJAS MK-1A will be delivered by 2028, ahead of the previously contracted 2029 timeline.

HAL is ramping up production from 16 to 24 TEJAS MK-1A aircraft per year. The plane has 43 improvements over the existing version of TEJAS.

The original two Tejas production lines were located in HAL's Bangalore facility and have a combined production capacity of 16 aircraft per year. HAL outsourced 25 percent of the work share to the private sector. Private suppliers of line-replaceable units have also increased from 344 to 410 during the TEJAS MK-1A development.

The IAF contracted with HAL in 2021 to buy 83 TEJAS MK-1A fighters. The first three planes have to be delivered before March 31, 2024. Thereafter, 16 aircraft have to be delivered per year and complete handover is to be completed in five years.

The TEJAS MK-1A is an advanced version of the Tejas, a light combat aircraft developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India. The TEJAS MK-1A is an improved and more capable variant of the TEJAS MK-1, which is designed for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Here are some key features and improvements of the TEJAS MK-1A:

Advanced Avionics: The TEJAS MK-1A features upgraded avionics, including a more modern radar system and electronic warfare suite.

Mid-Air Refuelling: It is equipped with mid-air refuelling capability, which extends its operational range and endurance.

Improved Payload: The aircraft is capable of carrying a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, making it a versatile combat platform.

Enhanced Maintainability: The TEJAS MK-1A incorporates design improvements for easier maintenance and reduced turnaround time between missions.

Improved Cockpit: The cockpit features modern displays and controls, improving the pilot's situational awareness and ease of operation.

Upgraded Flight Control System: The aircraft's flight control system has been enhanced to improve its agility and handling characteristics.

Increased Indigenous Content: The TEJAS MK-1A is part of India's "Make in India" initiative and is designed to have a higher percentage of indigenous components and systems.

The Tejas program is significant for India's defence capabilities, as it represents the country's efforts to develop its own indigenous fighter aircraft. The MK-1A version is intended to address some of the limitations of the earlier Tejas variants and provide the Indian Air Force with a more capable and versatile fighter jet.