New Delhi: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and the Indian Air Force are expected to hold a review meeting on the HAL Tejas Mk1A programme to reassess delivery timelines and operational requirements after the fighter jets were not delivered during the 2025 to 26 period as initially planned.
The meeting, likely to take place in late April or early May, will evaluate progress on the Light Combat Aircraft programme and review the Services Qualitative Requirements (SQRs). Officials indicated that if key technical and operational requirements are addressed satisfactorily, the first few aircraft could be delivered within the next two months.
The most recent review between the two sides took place in December. Earlier in February, HAL’s leadership stated that at least five aircraft were ready on the production line. However, deliveries have not yet commenced due to several technical and logistical challenges.
According to officials, the IAF has emphasised that the aircraft must fully meet the contractual standards before induction. Certain weapon integrations and operational capabilities were still pending during the previous review, and HAL is expected to present an updated progress report during the upcoming meeting.
The programme has faced repeated delays despite an earlier delivery target set for October 2025. Supply chain disruptions and delays in engine deliveries have been cited as major reasons affecting production schedules. Integration of the advanced EL/M-2052 AESA radar has also added further pressure on the project timeline.
The Indian Air Force has placed orders for around 180 Tejas Mk1A aircraft in two phases to strengthen its fighter fleet. Although HAL has displayed multiple airframes in recent updates, the company has reportedly received only a limited number of engines from the United States so far.
HAL’s production capacity currently stands at about 24 aircraft per year. Apart from supply chain constraints, experts believe that pending certifications and technical clearances are also contributing to the delay in deliveries.
