Hindustan Aeronautics Limited expects to start LCA Mk-1A deliveries to the Indian Air Force by December. The aerospace company is resolving final technical issues before handover.
HAL Director Ravi K said the company is completing the remaining radar and weapon integration work. He shared this update during an interview with a news channel.
Final tests continue before aircraft delivery
Ravi K explained that the final improvement phase is currently underway. Some radar-related issues still require solutions before delivery.
Additionally, the weapon integration process needs its final testing phase. HAL expects to resolve these challenges within one month.
The LCA Mk-1A program holds importance for strengthening the IAF fighter fleet. The Air Force currently faces concerns regarding fighter aircraft availability.
HAL prepares first batch of LCA Mk-1A jets
The Indian Air Force ordered 180 Mk-1A fighter jets worth ₹1.1 lakh crore. The first contract covered 83 aircraft and was signed in February 2021.
Later, a second contract for 97 fighter jets was signed in September 2025. The December delivery plan will follow the first contract.
HAL plans to deliver around 10 fighter jets during financial year 2026-27. Ravi K said HAL received 10 engines from GE Aerospace and prepared 27 LCA Mk-1A airframes.
He added that the company can definitely deliver 10 aircraft. Meanwhile, IAF remains concerned about delays affecting fighter induction.
HAL stated that 25 Mark-1A aircraft have been completed so far. The CMD said the American company assured smoother engine supplies.
Earlier, engine availability issues from the US slowed the LCA Tejas project. The Indian Air Force expressed concerns about operational readiness.
LCA Mk-1A features increase combat capability
The LCA Mk-1A can carry several missiles, bombs and heavy weapons. Therefore, it has been described as a powerful combat platform.
The aircraft uses the F404 engine. It also supports aerial refuelling, which increases its operational capability.
Furthermore, the fighter can reach a speed of 2,205 kilometres per hour. The aircraft will become an important part of India’s fighter fleet strengthening efforts.
