Nashik, India – A historic moment unfolded today as India marked a major leap in its defence and aerospace journey. The indigenous Tejas Mk 1A light combat aircraft officially took to the skies from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Nashik facility, signaling the start of a new era for India’s air power and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
In a high-profile ceremony, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the first Tejas Mk 1A to roll out from HAL’s newly inaugurated production line, underscoring India’s growing focus on indigenous military capability.
“This isn’t just a test flight—it’s the dawn of a new era,” said an official from HAL. “The Mk 1A represents India’s determination to design, build, and deploy its own advanced combat aircraft.”
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A 4.5-Generation Fighter Made in India
The Tejas Mk 1A is a 4.5-generation multirole combat jet designed for air superiority, ground attack, and precision strike missions. With 64% indigenous content, the aircraft features:
- Nine weapon hardpoints
- An advanced AESA radar
- State-of-the-art electronic warfare systems
- Compatibility with Astra air-to-air missiles, laser-guided bombs, and air-to-surface munitions — all made in India.
HAL has confirmed that the third LCA production line in Nashik is now operational, targeting the delivery of 83 Tejas Mk 1A jets by 2029. A fresh order for 97 additional aircraft was recently signed, further strengthening the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) fighter fleet.
Filling the MiG-21 Gap
With the retirement of two MiG-21 squadrons, the Tejas Mk 1A is arriving at a critical time. It will gradually replace the ageing fleet, providing modern avionics, improved survivability, and enhanced combat range.
“Tejas is now ready in every respect,” an IAF source told India Today. “We are awaiting engine deliveries, and once weapon trials are complete, there will be no delays in induction. We are fully committed to delivering all 180 aircraft by 2033.”
Expanding India’s Aerospace Manufacturing
Alongside the Tejas rollout, the second production line for the HTT-40 trainer aircraft was also inaugurated at Nashik. HAL aims to build 29 HTT-40s in the coming years, further boosting India’s domestic defence production capabilities.
The Tejas Mk 1A stands as more than just a fighter jet — it is a symbol of India’s engineering confidence and technological advancement. With the Tejas Mk II and futuristic AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) programmes on the horizon, India’s aerospace industry is poised to enter the fifth-generation era.
As Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared, “Tejas is not just a fighter—it is a testimony to India’s spirit of innovation, resilience, and self-reliance.”
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