India's indigenous fighter aircraft programme is approaching an important milestone, with the first Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A likely to be handed over to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in January 2027. The expected delivery could take place just weeks before Aero India 2027, scheduled to be held in Bengaluru from February 8 to 12.
The development comes after years of delays in the delivery of the advanced fighter aircraft manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The first batch of 83 Tejas Mk1A aircraft was originally expected to enter service in February 2024. However, delays in engine supplies and difficulties with weapons and systems integration pushed the delivery schedule back.
According to defence sources, HAL and the Indian Air Force are now working closely to complete the remaining requirements. If everything proceeds as planned, the first one or two aircraft could be handed over as early as January. However, the proposed timeline has not yet been officially confirmed by HAL or the Ministry of Defence.
One of the major challenges has been the delayed supply of F404-IN20 engines from American manufacturer GE Aerospace. HAL had ordered 99 engines under an agreement signed in 2021, but the first engine arrived only in March 2025. By September 2026, GE had supplied 14 engines, significantly affecting the production and delivery schedule.
Radar integration has also emerged as an important hurdle. The first batch of 83 aircraft is being equipped with the Israeli-origin ELTA EL/M-2052 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. Some radar-related software and integration functions are still undergoing improvements.
To accelerate the induction process, the Indian Air Force is understood to be considering temporary concessions on certain pending requirements for the first few aircraft. These capabilities would subsequently be completed through software upgrades and further technical work, within an agreed timeframe.
The Tejas Mk1A is an improved version of the original Tejas fighter and features advanced radar technology, electronic warfare capabilities, beyond-visual-range missile compatibility and aerial refuelling facilities. These upgrades are expected to strengthen the IAF's operational capabilities.
The programme is particularly important as the Indian Air Force currently operates around 29 fighter squadrons against an authorised strength of 42. The induction of additional indigenous fighters is therefore a key part of India's long-term defence modernisation strategy.
India has placed orders for a total of 180 Tejas Mk1A aircraft, including a second contract for 97 fighters worth approximately ₹62,370 crore, signed in September 2025.
If the January handover takes place, it will mark a significant step towards strengthening India's domestic fighter aircraft manufacturing programme ahead of Aero India 2027.
Sources: Defence programme updates and official government information, November 2026.
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