India’s Biggest Defense Deal! Govt Clears ₹62,000 Cr Purchase of 97 LCA Tejas Mk-1A Jets for IAF
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a historic decision boosting Atmanirbhar Bharat and the ‘Make in India’ initiative in the defense sector, the Union Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday approved the procurement of 97 indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1A for the Indian Air Force at a massive cost of ₹62,000 crore. This is being hailed as the largest indigenous defense purchase in India’s history.
The mega project will not only strengthen the IAF fleet with advanced fighters developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) but will also mark the beginning of a new era in domestic defense production.
This decision comes at a time when the IAF is preparing to bid farewell to its last squadron of MiG-21 fighter jets, which have served for more than 62 years. The final MiG-21s will be retired at a ceremony in Chandigarh in September 2025. The newly-approved 97 LCA Mk-1A jets will replace these ageing aircraft, significantly enhancing the IAF’s combat strength.
However, concerns remain over the slow progress of the LCA program. In February 2021, the IAF had placed an order for 83 LCA Mk-1A jets worth ₹48,000 crore, but delivery has yet to begin even after four years. Sources indicate that the first aircraft from this earlier order may only be delivered by October 2025. HAL’s Nasik production line is expected to roll out its first LCA Mk-1A test flight soon.
IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh has repeatedly expressed frustration over missed deadlines, pointing out that almost no project has ever been completed on time. The IAF is currently operating with 30 squadrons, well short of its sanctioned strength of 42.5 squadrons, raising serious questions about operational readiness.
Responding to the criticism, HAL Chairman D.K. Sunil stated that the focus is not on criticism but on delivering the LCA Mk-1A as quickly as possible. HAL has the capacity to produce 16 jets annually in Bengaluru and 24 in Nasik. Delays in engine supplies from U.S. company GE Aerospace have also contributed to the slowdown, though the company has now assured faster deliveries.