Defence Ministry, HAL Sign Rs 62K Cr Deal for 97 LCA Mk1A Jets

• MoD signs ₹62,370 crore contract with HAL for 97 LCA Tejas Mk1A jets
• Jets feature over 64% domestic content, Swayam Raksha Kavach, and 67 new indigenous components
• Mk1A jets will replace MiG-21 fighters and strengthen IAF’s multi-role combat capabilities

The signature ceremony for the supply of 97 Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mk1A, valued at ₹62,370 crore (taxes extra) under the Buy (India-IDDM) category, was held between the Ministry of Defence and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The Defence Ministry India has finalized a major fighter jet deal with HAL for the procurement of HAL LCA Mk1A jets to strengthen the Indian Air Force under its ongoing defence procurement India strategy. Fighter jet deliveries 2027 are expected as part of HAL aircraft production ramp-up, marking a significant milestone in military aviation India.

The 68 fighters and 29 twin-seaters compose this contract, and this second major contract was placed with the aerospace manufacturer owned by the Government of India after it signed, in February 2021, an agreement for the supply of 83 Tejas Mk1A jets to the Indian Air Force for ₹48,000 crore.

The new Mk1A jets will have the Swayam Raksha Kavach, advanced control actuators, and over 64% indigenous content, which includes 67 newly-developed domestic components that are being advertised by HAL for a self-reliant defence manufacturing setup. The delivery shall start in 2027-28.

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The single-engine Tejas Mk1A has been conceptualized as a replacement to the ageing MiG-21 fleet in the IAF, thus much operational capacity enhancement, especially on the projection that the number of fighter squadrons will be brought down to 31 from 42 approved.

The Tejas Mk1A is considered capable as a multi-role fighter that can operate under high-threat levels in air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and strike operational roles. With greater indigenous content, new avionics, and multidimensional operability, the aircraft will make an important contribution to enhancing India’s air power and defence preparedness.