Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) aims to deliver its first LCA Mark 1A fighter jet to the Indian Air Force by August 15 this year. Initially scheduled for delivery by February-March, the timeline has been pushed back for various reasons. The Indian Air Force is eager to receive a fully integrated aircraft with all specified features, and top officials, including the Chief of Air Staff, have been closely monitoring the project’s progress. The Deputy Chief of Air Staff had also recently visited the HAL hangars to review the programme. The HAL carried out the fighter’s first flight a couple of months ago.
Significant delays in the overall schedule are expected to be addressed soon, as American engine maker GE has committed to supplying its GE-404 engines by September-October. The delivery program for the 83 LCA Mark 1As has already faced several months of setbacks due to GE prioritizing other projects. The American manufacturer has assured that they will start delivering one or two engines each month beginning in September, but the Defence Ministry plans to request expedited deliveries to increase the monthly supply.
The induction of this indigenous fighter aircraft represents a major step toward achieving self-reliance in the military sector, with plans for the Prime Minister to potentially attend the delivery event. The LCA Mark 1A project was initiated under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, and a significant order worth Rs 48,000 crore for 83 aircraft has already been placed. Additionally, another order expected to be worth Rs 65,000 crore for 97 aircraft is anticipated by the end of this financial year.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued a tender to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the purchase of 97 indigenously produced LCA Mark 1A fighter jets. This tender marks the largest order for indigenous military hardware ever placed by the Indian government. Recently issued by the MoD, HAL has been given a three-month timeframe to respond.
Government officials have indicated that this program aims to replace the Indian Air Force’s ageing fleet of MiG-21s, MiG-23s, and MiG-27s, many of which have already been phased out or are set to be retired soon. The indigenous fighter aircraft initiative is expected to significantly enhance “Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) efforts and create substantial business opportunities for small and medium enterprises in the defence sector across the country.
Team BharatShakti
