In a bid to enhance its air force capabilities amidst a shortage of fighter squadrons, Bharat’s Defence Ministry has initiated a tender for the acquisition of 97 light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1A) from state-run plane-maker Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The expected cost for this procurement is around ₹67,000 crore. This move comes following the Defence Acquisition Council’s approval for more Tejas Mk-1A fighters, marking the initial step in Bharat’s procurement process.
This impending contract marks the second order placed by the Indian Air Force (IAF) for LCA Mk-1A fighters, with the first order being for 83 aircraft at a cost of ₹48,000 crore. However, delays in delivery have been encountered due to pending certifications. HAL has established a new production line in Nashik to meet the increasing demand for fighter jets, alongside its existing production capacity in Bengaluru.
The LCA Mk-1A, an advanced variant of the already inducted LCA Mk-1, is expected to play a pivotal role in bolstering IAF’s combat capabilities over the next decade. The IAF, which is set to operate around 350 LCAs including Mk-1, Mk-1A, and Mk-2 versions, is placing significant emphasis on indigenous fighter programs to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Air Vice Marshal Anil Golani (retd), Director General of the Centre for Air Power Studies, expressed that timely delivery of LCA Mk-1A aircraft is crucial. He emphasized the importance of progressing the LCA Mk-2 project and developments related to the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) for maintaining self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s flight in a Tejas Mk-1 trainer last November underscored a significant endorsement of India’s indigenous fighter program. The IAF has already inducted 32 LCA Mk-1 single-seater jets, along with two squadrons, out of the initial order for 40 Mk-1 jets.
The newer variants of LCA, including Mk-1A and the under-development Mk-2, boast improved features and technologies compared to their predecessors. The Mk-1A will be equipped with advanced systems such as digital radar warning receivers, external self-protection jammer pods, and superior radar.
HAL’s collaboration with US engine maker General Electric for the transfer of technology and manufacturing of F414 aero-engines in India for LCA Mk-2 signifies a significant step towards enhancing indigenous content in defence production. The upcoming deal is estimated to be worth around $1 billion and will contribute to achieving 75% indigenous content in Mk-2 jets.
The Cabinet Committee on Security recently approved a project for the indigenous development of a fifth-generation stealth fighter, AMCA, highlighting India’s commitment to modernizing its air force. The deployment of around 120 stealth fighters by 2035 is envisaged in IAF’s modernization plan.
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