LCA Tejas

The HAL Tejas () is an Indian single-engine, delta wing, multirole combat aircraft designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy. Tejas made its first flight in 2001 and entered into service with the IAF in 2015. In 2003, the aircraft was officially named 'Tejas'. Currently, Tejas is the smallest and lightest in its class of supersonic fighter jets.'' ''

Tejas is the second jet powered combat aircraft developed by HAL, after the HF-24 Marut. The first Tejas squadron became operational in 2016. The No. 45 Squadron IAF (''Flying Daggers'')'','' based at Sulur Air Force Station (AFS) in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, was the first to have their MiG-21 ''Bisons'' replaced with the Tejas.

Tejas has three production variants - Mark 1, Mark 1A and a trainer/light attack variant. The IAF currently has placed an order for 123 Tejas and is planning to procure 97 more. The IAF plans to procure at least 324 aircraft or 18 squadrons of Tejas in all variants, including the heavier Tejas Mark 2 which is currently being developed.

the indigenous content in the Tejas Mark 1 is 59.7% by value and 75.5% by the number of line replaceable units. The indigenous content of the Tejas Mk 1A is expected to surpass 70% in the next four years.

The name "Tejas", meaning 'radiance' or 'brilliance' in Sanskrit, continued an Indian tradition of choosing Sanskrit-language names for both domestically and foreign-produced combat aircraft.

Development

LCA programme

The LCA programme originated in the early 1980s. In 1983, the Government of India established the LCA project with the initial goal to develop a new light combat aircraft to replace the ageing IAF fighters, especially the MiG-21 variants, which had been the mainstay of the IAF since 1963. At one point the IAF had operated as many as 874 MiG-21s. The "Long Term Re-Equipment Plan 1981" noted that most of these IAF fighters were approaching the end of their service lives by the early-1990s, and that by 1995, the IAF would be 40 percent short of the aircraft needed to fill its projected force structure requirements.

In 1984, the Government of India established Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the aegis of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to manage the LCA programme. The ADA was entrusted with the design and development of LCA while HAL was chosen as the principal contractor. The government's "self-reliance" goals for the LCA included the three most sophisticated and challenging systems: the Fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control system, multi-mode pulse-doppler radar, and afterburning turbofan engine.

The project definition phase was commenced in October 1986 with France's Dassault-Breguet Aviation as consultant. Dassault-Breguet's expertise was mainly utilised in the design and system integration of the Tejas. In 1988, Dassault offered a hybrid fly by wire flight control system for the LCA, consisting of three digital channels and one analogue channel, with a redundant analogue channel as a back up in case the digital channels fails. But the ADA was in favour of a quadruplex digital FBW flight control system.

The design of the Tejas was finalised in 1990 as a small tailless compound delta wing design with relaxed static stability. To provide enhanced manoeuvrability it would be a ''control configured vehicle'' incorporating a digital FBW flight control system. Kota Harinarayana was the Programme Director and Chief Designer of Tejas. In 1992, a dedicated ''National Control Law (CLAW)'' team was set up by the National Aerospace Laboratories to develop India's own state of the art FBW flight control system for the Tejas. Initially Lockheed Martin's consultancy was sought. But it was terminated following a US embargo in response to India's second nuclear tests in 1998. This delayed the programme partly by about 18 months. Later India indigenously developed a quadruplex digital fly-by-wire flight control system for Tejas.

The CLAW team completed the design and integration of the flight control laws with the flight control system software, with the aid of an ''Iron Bird'' test rig. The quadruplex digital fly-by-wire flight control system conducted over 50 hours of pilot testing on Iron Bird Test Rig. On 4 January 2001, on its maiden flight, the TD-1 successfully flew with an indigenous quadruplex digital FBW flight control system. The aerodynamic characterization research was conducted at the National Aerospace Laboratories' 1.2m Trisonic Wind Tunnel Facility.

Another critical technology needed for LCA was the multi-mode radar (MMR). Initially, the Ericsson/Ferranti PS-05/A I/J-band multi-function radar, also used on Saab's JAS 39 Gripen, was intended to be used. However, DRDO decided to develop an indigenous multi-mode radar for the Tejas. HAL's Hyderabad division and the DRDO's Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) laboratory were selected to jointly lead the MMR programme, and work commenced in 1997. The Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) was responsible for the MMR's test programme. An HAL-748 airborne surveillance aircraft was converted for this purpose. The development of multi-mode was not smooth, as it suffered some setbacks. By 2005, only two radar modes – the air-to-air look-up and look-down - were confirmed to have been successfully tested. The performance of several other modes that had been tested were suboptimal. The problem with the radar was mainly attributed to the lack of compatibility between the LRDE/HAL multi mode radar and the LRDE's advanced signal processor module. Using an "off-the-shelf" foreign radar as an interim option was considered.

ADA met with success in the development of three of the five key technologies identified at the beginning of the LCA programme. The successful endeavours were mastery in the FBW flight control system, the development and manufacturing of carbon-fibre composite structures and skins, and a modern glass cockpit. The ''Autolay'' computer-aided design software developed as part of the LCA programme has been licensed to Airbus for its A380 wide-body aircraft project. The development of a multi-mode pulse-doppler radar was abandoned, off the shelf Israeli Elta EL/M-2032 multi-mode and EL/M-2052 Active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar units being selected for the Mk1 and initial Mk1a aircraft, respectively, while DRDO opted, in 2012, to develop its own Uttam AESA Radar, as of 2024 the Uttam radar is undergoing flight trials. India's self-reliance goal oriented development for the LCA programme has considerably increased the indigenous components in Tejas and contributed to an aviation industry expansion in the country.

On December 20, 2021, Ministry of Defence (MoD) in a written reply during winter session of Rajya Sabha clarified that the HAL Tejas is no longer considered as a replacement for the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21, instead it is now part of a general IAF fleet modernisation programme.

Prototypes and testing

Prototype testing began in 2003, a year after the first flight of the second Technology Demonstrator (TD-2). The first prototype aircraft, PV-1, made its maiden flight in 2003. The first trainer prototype PV-5 was rolled out in 2009 and made its first flight on 26 November 2009. A total of two trainer prototypes were built and designated PV-5 and PV-06. The first naval prototype, designated NP-1, made its first flight on 27 April 2012. It was a twin-seater aircraft, while the second naval prototype, designated as NP-2, was a single seater. Both naval prototypes were used extensively for various aircraft carrier-related trials at the Shore Based Test Facility in Goa. NP-2 was used in the actual carrier trials, where it made an arrested recovery and ski-jump assisted take-off from the aircraft carrier in January 2020.

The first Limited Series Production aircraft (LSP-1) performed its maiden flight on 25 April 2007. A total of seven limited series production (LSP) aircraft were built. The LSPs were extensively used for developmental trials such as weapon testing – involving test firing of the R-73 and Python-5 close combat missiles, the I-Derby ER beyond visual range air-to-air missile and guided–unguided munition releases. The LSPs were also used for sensor trials involving integration and testing of the Israeli Elta EL/M-2032 multi-mode radar, and EL/M-2052 AESA radar, and the Indian Uttam AESA Radar and Rafael Litening targeting pod. The Uttam radar was integrated on the Tejas LSP-2 and LSP-3, and logged about 30 hours of flight testing on the Tejas alone. The high altitude trials and hot weather trials were carried out with the LSPs and the PV-3 prototype, in IOC and FOC configurations. These trials were mainly focused on assessing the performance of the various sensors and avionics on board, at temperatures ranging from below -10 degree Celsius to more than +45 degrees Celsius.

Sea trials to assess the radar performance in air-to-air and air-to-sea modes at various altitudes were carried out in 2010. Flutter vibration tests were also carried out in different configurations at high angle of attack (AoA) to assess the structural integrity across the flight envelope. LSP-4 completed the successful trial of BDL developed Counter Measure Dispensing System (CMDS) with R-73 missile on 2 December 2010. It worked well Open Architecture Mission Computer and Digital Stores Management System.

In the second half of 2012, the Tejas fleet was grounded for over three months and the ejection system had to be modified to resume flight tests by the end of 2012. In 2013, Tejas (LSP-7) conducted an inflight engine relight test at high altitude to assess the engine response on flameout, a critical parameter for operational clearance. The inflight engine relight test is crucial for single engine combat aircraft. On 15 April 2023, HAL received a flight clearance certificate for the Aircraft Mounted Accessory Gear Box (AMAGB) bearings and power take-off shaft. The Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) also gave clearance for the pre-production of landing gear seals developed by the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) and Fluoro Carbon Seals Limited.

Operational clearance

In December 2006, the IAF announced that it would form an "LCA Induction Team" to manage the aircraft's service introduction. The Tejas was awarded initial operational clearance-I (IOC-I) in January 2011.Prasad, K. V
"Tejas gets Initial Operational Clearance."
''The Hindu'', (Chennai, India), 10 January 2011. Retrieved 30 May 2012. To ease up the process of FOC, an interim IOC-II was issued to Tejas in December 2013. The IOC-II expanded the g-limit, angle of attack and allowed the aircraft to carry precision guided munitions and close combat missiles. The IOC-II Tejas have an operational radius of . The first squadron, consisting of Tejas in IOC-II configuration, became operational in 2016. The No. 45 Squadron IAF based at Sulur Air Force Station, Coimbatore was the first to have their MiG-21s replaced by Tejas aircraft at the base.

The FOC campaign began in December 2014. Two critical parameters set by IAF for FOC clearance was expansion of angle of attack from 24 degree in IOC-II to 28 degree in FOC and inflight refueling capability. In February 2018, as part of the FOC campaign, the Tejas carried out a "hot refuelling" - refuelling with engine running, which shortens the turnaround time by 30% and doubles the sortie rate. In September 2018, the Tejas successfully completed its mid-air refuelling trials required for the aircraft to obtain its FOC. In January 2019, HAL received permission from CEMILAC to start production of the FOC standard Tejas.

On 20 February 2019, during the Aero India 2019 show, FOC was formally awarded to the Tejas. The HAL handed over the FOC certificate to the then Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa at the Yelahanka Air Force base. After the formal ceremoney, ACM Dhanoa stated that Tejas was "ready" an
"behaved like a true fighter"
The second Tejas squadron – No.18 ''Flying Bullets'' was formed at Sulur Air Force Station on 27 May 2020 with the first four serial production FOC aircraft.

A full mission simulator (FMS) phase-1 was commissioned at Sulur Air Force Station on 23 October 2021. Phase 1 of the FMS features training in aircraft handling and full envelope flying. Phase 2 will further augment the training with focus on weapons system and advance sensors onboard Tejas.

Upgrades and further development

In May 2015, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) noted some shortcomings in the then-delivered Tejas Mark 1 IOC standard aircraft, which according to the CAG would limit the ability to survive and operation deployment of the aircraft in actual combat. A few of these shortcomings, including lack of combat endurance, were addressed in the Tejas Mark 1 FOC configuration aircraft. Tejas Mark 1 FOC is modified to perform in-flight refuelling from Ilyushin Il-78 and Sukhoi Su-30MKI. Tejas is also undergoing butt firing trials and air-to-air firing at HAL, Nashik facility with Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-23.

The shortcomings, such as the increased weight and reduced speed, would be addressed in the upcoming Tejas Mark 1A aircraft by increasing the use of composites in manufacturing and reducing the supersonic drag by using more aerodynamic pylons. The MK1A will also have AESA radar, a self-protection jammer, updated avionics and electronic warfare capabilities, among other improvements. The shortcomings identified by CAG that require redesign and structural modification such as increasing internal fuel capacity, are planned to be rectified in the Tejas Mark 2.

An agreement has been signed by the Indian Air Force and the Aeronautical Development Agency to include advanced weaponry and sensors into HAL Tejas. By transferring technical know-how for the smooth integration of weapons and sensors, ADA and the IAF's Software Development Institute (SDI) hope to empower the IAF to carry out integration and flight testing on its own.

On 5 March 2024, the high-altitude testing for On-Board Oxygen Generating System centric Life Support System (OBOGS-ILSS) of Tejas was successfully completed by DRDO. It could be used in MiG-29K and other aircraft with modifications. LCA PV-3 aircraft were used to test the system under a variety of flight conditions, including high g force and altitudes of up to . OBOGS oxygen concentrations, demand breathing, 100% oxygen availability, and aerobatic maneuvers at the necessary altitudes for complete functional testing were carried out following CEMILAC flight approval. All of the parameters have been met by the system which will replace the earlier Liquid Oxygen System (LOX).

Naval variant

The ''Naval LCA programme'' was commenced in 2003. According to ADA, the ''Naval LCA (N-LCA) Programme'' was envisaged to be completed in two phases, under Phase-1 two naval prototypes were developed - the two-seat ''NP-1'' and the single-seat ''NP-2'', based on the Tejas Mark 1 design, to carryout carrier suitability certification and weapons integration. Under Phase 2, two single-seat prototypes were planned to be built, based on the Tejas Mark 2 design, with further design optimisation and integration of the General Electric F414 INS6 engine. The first naval prototype NP-1 was rolled out in July 2010, and made its first flight on 27 April 2012.Kumar, Chethan
"LCA naval variant's first flight on Friday."
''Deccan Herald'', 25 April 2012. Retrieved 30 May 2012. The naval LCA has stronger landing gear to absorb the forces generated during carrier take off and arrested recovery.

In December 2014, the LCA Navy successfully made its first ski-jump assisted take off from a SBTF at . The navy variant has a distinctive flight control law mode which allows hands-free take-off.

In December 2016, the Indian Navy (IN) opted out of the programme, owing to the long delay and technical reasons – such as inadequate thrust to weight ratio of N-LCA for carrier based combat operations, and issued a fresh RFI for the procurement of 57 multi-role carrier borne fighters.

Because the technologies developed for the Tejas programme will be carried over to other platforms currently being developed by the ADA, test flying was continued.

In 2019, an LCA navy prototype successfully carried out the first arrested landing at the SBTF in Goa in day time and night time. As of December 2019, the Naval LCA programme completed 209 test flights, including 50 ski jump take-offs and 28 arrested landings.

In January 2020, the naval prototype NP-2 successfully carried out its first arrested landing and ski-jump assisted take-off from the aircraft carrier .

In July 2020, the DRDO announced that the plan to develop an LCA Mark 2 Navy had been dropped and they were working on a new carrier-borne fighter according to the Indian Navy's '' multi-role carrier borne fighter requirement'' floated in 2016 to replace the current fleet of MIG-29K/KUB carrier-based fighters. In Aero India 2021, a new twin engine naval fighter was unveiled, the '' Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter'' (TEDBF). The experience gained in the N-LCA programme will help in the development of TEDBF.

In February 2023, the naval prototype completed its maiden landing and take-off from the indigenous aircraft carrier .

Tejas Mark 1A

The Tejas Mark 1A variant has more than 40 improvements over the Mark 1 variant. Upgraded Mark 1A features a new avionic suite centred on EL/M-2052 AESA Radar and Uttam AESA Radar developed in-house. DARE Unified Electronic Warfare Suite (UEWS), an externally mounted self protection jammer (SPJ) for enhanced survivability, in-flight refuelling capability, Onboard Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) developed by Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL) for endurance and an expanded weapon suite consisting of Astra BVRAAM and ASRAAM. Two ASRAAMs are intended for use on Tejas Mark 1A. The production variant will come equipped with dual-rack pylons with weapon systems integration. HAL will install in-house developed Combined Interrogator and Transponder (CIT) with digital map generator by Mission and Combat Systems R&D Centre which helps transfer the required mission map on pilot display, an upgraded IFF+ from older identification friend or foe system. To better accommodate the pilots, cockpit floor is also reshaped. The upgraded Tejas Mark 1A will have a reduced turnaround time. Tejas Mark 1A will use indigenously developed Angad electronic warfare suite and DRDO Advanced Self Protection Jammer pod.

BEL will supply 20 types of locally developed critical avionics and upgrades such as Digital Flight Control Computers from ADA, Air Data Computer from DRDO, Weapon Computers from ADE, Radar Warning Receiver from Combat Aircraft Systems Development and Integration Centre (CASDIC) and Head-up display from Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO) from 2023 to 2028 for ₹2,400 crore.

In order to produce the BMI Engine Bay Door for the Tejas Mark 1A, HAL and National Aerospace Laboratories inked a technology transfer agreement. For the engine bay door, where it must survive a service temperature of roughly 200 °C, NAL Advanced Composites Division is creating a manufacturing process technique that uses Carbon-BMI Prepreg to create co-cured composite structures that are very temperature resistant. On 28 March 2024, Tejas Mark 1A, equipped with the first set of Carbon-BMI Engine Bay Door assembly, successfully completed the inaugural flight from HAL facility.

On 19 April 2024, ADA delivered the first batch of Secondary Flight Control of Tejas Mk 1A which consists of an indigenously designed Leading Edge Slats and Airbrake Control Module. These flight control systems features "state-of-the-art Servo-Valve based electro-hydraulic servo actuators and control modules." These development was the result of the collaboration of ADA, Research Centre Imarat (RCI) and Central Manufacturing Technology Institute (CMTI). The technology is ready to be integrated with production variants of Tejas Mk 1A as it successfully completed flight trials. These are being produced at Accessories Division, HAL, Lucknow. On 30th May 2025, the first centre fuselage assembly for the Tejas Mk1A was handed over to HAL by subcontractor VEM Technologies in Hyderabad.

Milestones

* According to HAL Chairman and Director R Madhavan, the design activity of Tejas Mark 1A is moving ahead, and the testing of subsystems will be completed by 2021. The taxi trials will commence in the first half of 2022, and the first flight of Mark 1A prototype will happen in the second half of 2022.
* On 20 May 2022, the Tejas Mark 1A prototype completed its first flight. HAL intends to obtain a certificate from Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) within 30 months before this version enters mass production.
* On 28 March 2024, the first production series Mark 1A aircraft (LA 5033) conducted its inaugural flight which lasted for 18 minutes. The aircraft will undergo more testing before being officially transferred to the IAF.
* On March 12, 2025, Astra Mk-1 successfully demonstrated a direct hit on a flying target from Tejas. This was a significant test for Mark 1A induction.

Tejas Mark 2

The HAL Tejas design has been further developed into the Tejas Mark 2, incorporating a more powerful General Electric F414 INS6 engine, canards and other design changes. The Tejas Mark 2, which is expected to be rolled out in 2025, will have an increased payload carrying capacity and internal fuel capacity, more external hardpoints, improved combat range, a completely redesigned cockpit, and an integrated infrared search and track (IRST) system, in addition to the AESA radar. The Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) is developing aircraft health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) to integrate the various sensors on board the Tejas Mark 2. The first flight of Tejas Mark 2 is expected to be in late 2025 or early 2026.

Program costs

Development costs

* LCA Programme - (up to March 2020)
* Kaveri engine programme -
* additional design and development (Jan 2021)

Flyaway costs

* for IOC Mark 1 (2014)
* for FOC Mark 1 (2010)
* for Mark 1A and for export variant (2021)

Design

Overview

The Tejas is a single-engine multirole combat aircraft which has a tailless, compound delta wing design with "relaxed static stability" for enhanced manoeuvrability and agility. The Tejas is a multi-role combat aircraft and its flexibility permits it to carry out Interception, air-to-surface and anti-shipping roles in a single mission. The wind tunnel testing and computational fluid dynamics analysis have optimised the design of Tejas for minimum transonic and supersonic wave drag, as well low wing-loading.

Tejas has eight hardpoints – one beneath the port-side air-intake, one under the fuselage (centreline station) and three hardpoints under each wing, of these, three are wet hardpoints which can carry drop tanks. The hardpoint beneath the port side air-intake is dedicated to carrying sensor pods such as FLIR, IRST or laser rangefinder/designator. These can also be carried on the centreline pylon and inboard pairs of wing stations. It has an aerial refuelling probe on the starboard side of the forward fuselage. The Tejas weapon suite consists of I-Derby ER and Astra beyond visual range air-to-air missiles and R-73, Python-5 and ASRAAM close combat missiles. The Tejas has an internal 23 mm Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-23 twin-barreled autocannon under the starboard side air-intake. The BrahMos-NG is being developed for the Tejas.

The relatively smaller size, extensive use of airframe composites, the Y-duct inlet which shields the engine compressor blades, the application of radar-absorbent material (RAM) coatings and so on, reduces the overall radar cross-section of the aircraft.

Airframe

Apart from aluminium-lithium alloys and titanium alloys, carbon-fibre composite materials are used in the construction of the Tejas. The composite materials constitute 45% of the airframe by weight and 90% by surface area, the highest among contemporary aircraft. The upper and lower wing surfaces, wing spars and wing ribs are also made out of carbon-fibre composites, while the fin tip is made out of fiberglass. The extensive use of composite materials in the airframe not only makes the aircraft lighter but also gives high strength. This also reduces the number of joints or rivets, increases the aircraft's structural integrity and lowers its susceptibility to fatigue cracks. The tailfin is a monolithic honeycomb structure, reducing the manufacturing cost by 80% compared to traditional methods. Initially the Tejas prototypes were equipped with a radome made out of Kevlar which was replaced with a quartz radome in the production aircraft.

The naval LCA has a nose droop to provide improved view for carrier landings. In addition to the elevons, the naval LCA has wing leading–edge vortex controllers (LEVCON) control surfaces that extend from the wing-root leading edge, which could be deflected to a downward angle or an upward angle to increase lift and reduce airspeed during approach. The LEVCONs also provides better low-speed handling and increase controllability at high angles of attack (AoA). The naval Tejas also has a strengthened undercarriage, stronger landing gear, and an arrestor hook system for carrier landings. The two-seat LCA Navy variant (NP-1) have aerodynamic commonality with the trainer variant.

The Secondary Flight Control of Tejas Mk 1A consists of an indigenously designed Leading Edge Slats and Airbrake Control Module. Aeronautical Development Agency, on 19 April 2024, delivered the first batch of these flight control system. These flight control systems features "state-of-the-art Servo-Valve based electro-hydraulic servo actuators and control modules." The technology is ready to be integrated with production variants of Tejas Mk 1A as it successfully completed flight trials. These are being produced at Accessories Division, HAL, Lucknow.

Avionics

The avionics of the Tejas Mark 1 is centered around Elta EL/M-2032 radar. Its digital flight control computer developed by ADE and manufactured BEL. It has an electronic warfare (EW) suite domestically developed by Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE), which consists of a radar warning receiver (RWR), integrated self-protection jammer, chaff and flare dispenser system. The upgraded variant of the Tejas Mark 1, named the Tejas Mark 1A have an AESA radar, new high performance digital flight control computer (DFCC MK1A), new EW suite and updated avionics. Some of the production Mark 1A fighters will be equipped with the Elta EL/M-2052 AESA radar, while rest of the aircraft are expected to fly with the domestically developed Uttam AESA radar. The new EW system for the Mark 1A, developed by DARE known as the ''Unified Electronic Warfare suite'' (UEWS), will have electronic countermeasures and electronic counter-countermeasure capabilities, digital radio frequency memory based jamming and deception capabilities. The Tejas Mark 1A will also carry a pod-mounted self-protection jammer – the Elta ELL-8222WB. The Mark 1A will have software-defined radio-based secure communications and network-centric warfare capabilities.

The Tejas can also carry pod-based sensors such as forward looking infrared (FLIR). Currently the Tejas is cleared to carry the Rafael Litening III targeting/reconnaissance pod, while an advanced version named ''Litening 4I'' will be integrated on the Tejas. The Litening 4I pod, developed by the C4I systems division of Rafael, enables the aircraft to carry out reconnaissance, surveillance and intelligence gathering, in addition to target acquisition. The Tejas has an integrated health-monitoring system.

The Tejas has a night vision goggles compatible glass cockpit, equipped with a domestically developed head-up display (HUD), three multi-function displays, two Smart Standby Displays by Central Scientific Instruments Organization (CSIO). The Tejas has hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) arrangement to reduce pilot's workload. The displays provide key information on a need-to-know basis, the pilot interacts with onboard systems through a multi-functional keyboard and several selection panels. The Tejas has a "get-you-home" panel coupled with an air data computer developed by Bharat Electronics Limited to assist the pilot in case of an emergency. The cockpit is equipped with Martin-Baker 16LG zero-zero ejection seat and ''canopy severance system'' developed by the DRDO for safe ejection. For life support, Tejas Mark 1 relies on conventional liquid oxygen LOX system, while an onboard oxygen-generation system (OBOGS) has been developed for Tejas Mark 1A. The ADA has developed virtual reality assisted cockpit simulator for Tejas, and N-LCA. Currently Tejas pilots are flying with Elbit DASH IV helmet-mounted display system.

Flight control system

The aerodynamic configuration of Tejas is based on a delta-wing layout with shoulder-mounted wings. The control surfaces include three-section slats on the wing's outer leading edge while the inboard sections of the wings have additional slats to generate vortex lift over the inner wing and high-energy air-flow along the tail fin to enhance high-AoA stability. The wing trailing edge fits two-segment elevons to provide pitch and roll control. The only empennage-mounted control surfaces are the single-piece Aircraft rudder, rudder and two Air brake (aeronautics), airbrakes, located in the upper rear part of the fuselage, one each on either side of the fin. Since the Tejas is a relaxed static stability design, it is equipped with a NAL-developed full authority quadruplex digital fly-by-wire flight control system and an open architecture digital flight control computer developed by BEL. Its flight control surfaces are controlled by hybrid electro-hydraulic actuators through the digital flight control computer. The fly-by-wire flight control system of the Tejas has an advanced feature called ''auto low-speed recovery.'' This enables envelope protection at low speed and high angles of attack. It prevents the aircraft from entering into uncontrolled flight while maneuvering. Another feature is ''disorientation recovery function'', once engaged it will recover the aircraft to an optimal altitude, airspeed and level flight. Some of the flight control laws for these features were formulated by the IIT Bombay research university.

On 19 February 2024, Tejas Mark-1A prototype LSP-7 successfully completed sortie with indigenously designed high performance Digital Flight Control Computer (DFCC). The system was developed by Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE). The latest DFCC has a quadraplex PowerPC-based processor, a fast I/O controller based on an autonomous state machine, increased computational throughput, and sophisticated on-board software that satisfies DO-178C DO-178C#Software level, level-A safety regulations. All important metrics and the flight controls' performance were deemed adequate during the flying test.

Propulsion

Developing an indigenous jet engine for Tejas was one of the five self-reliance goals identified at the beginning of the LCA Programme. A programme led by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) to design and develop an indigenous powerplant, the GTRE GTX-35VS Kaveri, Kaveri, was launched as early as in 1986. However Kaveri jet engine development faced some setbacks, hence the General Electric F404, General Electric F404-GE-F2J3 Afterburner (engine), afterburning turbofan engine was procured as an interim solution. Ten units of the F404-F2J3 engine power the Technology Demonstrator and Prototype variants of Tejas. Since 2004, uprated General Electric F404-GE-IN20 engines are being used on LSP, Naval prototypes and Mark 1 variants of Tejas.

The production Tejas Mark 1 is powered by the F404-IN20 engine, with the same power-plant intended to power Mark 1A variant also, while the heavier Tejas Mark 2 will be powered by a General Electric F414-INS6 engine.

Delivery

Orders

* 31 March 2006 - Indian Government on behalf of the Indian Air Force placed an initial order for twenty LCA Tejas, from HAL, for delivery by December 2011. The order comprised 4 twin seat trainers, and 16 single seat Tejas IOC II. The delivery, scheduled for completion in 2011, was finally completed by September 2024.
* 23 December 2010 - Indian Government ordered 20 additional LCA Tejas, comprising 4 twin seat trainers, and 16 single seat Tejas FOC. It was to be delivered by December 2016. On 27 March 2025, the original contract value of was revised to .
* Tejas Mk1A 2021 contract:
** August 2018 - The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for procurement of 83 Tejas Mk 1A aircraft with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Missile, Self-Protection Jammer (SPJ) and Air-to-Air Refuelling (AAR) capabilities.
** 13 January 2021 - Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) cleared the procurement of 73 single seater and 10 twin seater trainer variants of Tejas Mk1A at the cost of with additional funds for Design & Development and Infrastructure worth .
** 3 February 2021 - Ministry of Defence signed the contract with HAL on the inaugural day of List of Aero India Editions#13th edition (2021), Aero India 2021 at a cost of almost .
** 17 August 2021 - HAL signed a contract with GE worth to supply 99 F404 engines and service support by 2029.
*Second Tejas Mk1A contract:
**16 September 2023 - Air chief marshal (India), Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, VR Chaudhari stated that the Indian Airforce has made the decision to order around 97 more Mark 1A fighter jets.
**30 November 2023 - The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for procurement of additional 97 Tejas Mk 1A for IAF from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category
**12 April 2024 - MoD issued tender to HAL for 97 Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets. Clearance for the deal expected to be received from Cabinet Committee on Security in December 2024 and deal to be signed by year-end.

Production lines

# Bengaluru Plant I: HAL's first Tejas production line is situated at Bangalore near HAL Airport. The production line was set up at a cost of , with HAL holding 50% stake and the rest held by IAF and Navy. First serial production aircraft delivered in 2015 with production rate of 8 per year.
# Bengaluru Plant II: In March 2017, Government of India sanctioned for setting up an additional production line under Aircraft Division, HAL. This would increase the production capacity from 8 to 16. Production of sub-components like Front Fuselage, Centre Fuselage, Rear Fuselage, Wings were outsourced to private partners. The production plant was inaugurated by Minister of Defence (India), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on 2 February 2021.
# Nashik Airport, Nashik Plant: On 5 April 2023, the then Defence Secretary (India), Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane officially opened a third production line at HAL's Nashik facility with an investment of over . This would bring the total production capacity from 16 to 24 aircraft annually. The production of aircraft at this plant would start from October 2024 while the first aircraft from Nashik was expected by the end of FY2024-25. First Tejas Mk1A from the facility to be rolled out by April 2025.
# Nashik Plant 2: HAL also plans to setup another production line at Nashik to ramp up production capacity from 24 to 32 as reported on 10 January 2025. The line can start production within one and a half years of sanction.

First and second orders

On 1 October 2014, LCA-SP1 aircraft took the first flight. On 17 January 2015 the aircraft was delivered to the Indian Air Force. Left head till then flow on 5 sorties to test various equipment. Due to delays in production the cost per aircraft rose from in 2006 to in 2015. However, the aircraft was not be inducted into a squadron till 2016 until sufficient numbers were delivered by HAL. The aircraft would also require additional flight hours before induction. Expected delivery timeline was as follows: SP-2 in March, upto SP-5 by June, upto SP-8 by March 2016; completing a total of 8 aircraft.

The formation of the first Tejas-equipped squadron started in July 2011. No. 45 Squadron IAF ''(Flying Daggers)'', the first Tejas squadron, was operationalised in July 2016. It is based in Sulur Air Force Station, Coimbatore.

When the first order was placed in 2006, it was expected that ADA would receive Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) by 2008. Induction was scheduled by December 2011. However, IOC was originally received in December 2013 and the first IOC variant was delivered in FY2016-17.

As of 11 February 2019, 12 IOC aircraft were delivered with 4 due to be delivered by March 2019. Also, on 31 December 2018, ADA has handed over Drawing Applicability List (DAL) and Equipment Standard of Preparation (SOP) documents, for FOC configuration to HAL for production. The production and delivery of 8 Tejas Trainer would start after design clearance by ADA.

The second Tejas Mark 1 squadron, No. 18 Squadron IAF, Squadron 18, was formed at Sulur Air Force Station, Sulur on 27 May 2020.

The first front fuselage of Tejas Mk1 FOC aircraft for the second order was delivered by Dynamatic Technologies on 2 November 2020.

By August 2023, the delivery of all 32 single-seat Tejas Mk 1 aircraft (IOC and FOC) were completed.The first series production trainer aircraft (LT5201) completed its maiden flight on 5 April 2023. IAF has received first LCA Tejas twin seater aircraft from HAL on 4 October 2023. Next trainer variant delivery expected by March 31.

As of 18 September 2024, 4 trainer aircraft have been delivered to IAF while the rest of 4 are to be delivered by March 2025.

As of 10 January 2025, 38 of the 40 aircraft have been delivered and the last two trainers would be delivered soon. On 11 January 2025, the last of the 40 Tejas - LT-5208 - took its first flight.

Third order delays

As of February 2021, three units of Tejas Mk1A was to be delivered in the third year from contract signing (2024) followed by a production rate of 16 aircraft per year for five years, completing deliveries within eight years of contract signing. The first aircraft will have an indigenous content of 50% which will be elevated to 60% by the end of contract.

As of October 2022, the delivery date of the first aircraft was reportedly scheduled on 3 February 2024 with three aircraft to be delivered by 31 March. In December 2023, it was reported that the IAF has plans to raise the first squadron of Tejas Mark 1A at Bikaner Airport, Nal Air Force Station. Later in June 2024, it was confirmed that No. 3 Squadron IAF, No. 3 Squadron and No. 23 Squadron IAF, No. 23 Squadron would be the first units to operate the Mk1A variant replacing their in-service MiG 21s.

The delivery of F404 engines, which were scheduled to begin from February 2024 have been delayed, due to supply chain issues, as claimed by General Electric, GE. The delivery of the first aircraft itself was shifted to the end of March 2024. By then, the IAF's latest requests for software upgrades and minor design changes caused the delay in delivery timeline, according to sources within the military and defence establishment. Also, a number of certifications were pending. The delivery of essential components that were ordered from Israel, Russia and Ukraine have also been delayed due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. All of which is impacting the production and delivery schedule.

In May 2024, the Ministry of Defence (India), MoD asked HAL in May to deliver at least 18 Tejas Mk 1A by March 2025 and the entire 180 jets (including later 97 Tejas Mk1A order) within 10 years. Subsequently, the delivery dates were shifted several times from February 2024 to July-end (as of May), to 15 August (as of July) and again to November (as of August).

In August, the first aircraft was undergoing critical flight tests with weapons trials to be expected soon while the second was in high speed taxi trials phase. The next 4 units were in advanced stages of production. HAL then planned to manufacture at least 14 airframes in "ready-to-go state" by the fiscal year in order to ensure swift engine integration and aircraft deliveries within few weeks after arrival of new engines.

Again, in September 2024, Denmark prohibited the export of engine charge amplifiers, previously installed on Tejas Mk1, resulting in further delays of Tejas Mk1A deliveries. Later, HAL assigned a Bengaluru-based company to indigenously develop the component which would then be tested before integration. The engine charge amplifier is a crucial component tasked to sense engine temperature and adjust operation accordingly.

The same month, a report suggested that the fighter aircraft's Israeli software integration being finished and is undergoing final trials and deliveries could begin from October 2024. The delivery would begin with category B engines, which refers to the engines previously used or procured from GE. The F404-IN20 engine delivery had been shifted to arrive in November 2024.

There was an additional problem for the delivery. General Electric had closed down the production line of F404-IN20 at Lynn, Massachusetts engines earlier without further prospects of orders from India and the first engine was yet to be delivered even in October 2024. First engine delivery dates were delayed to September 2024 as of then and followed by a production rate of two per month. By November, engine deliveries was delayed by 10 months. In October 2024, GE again delayed the engine deliveries to April 2025. The reason for delay was cited as supply chain issues since a South Korean firm with financial issues failed to deliver certain components of the engine. HAL had 5-6 aircraft ready for delivery. The Mk1A is in the final stages of trials before delivery. Following the orders, a lengthy process of sorting out supply chain problems was undertaken and the F404 production line at Boston restarted by late 2024 to enable deliveries after a stagnation of 5 years. As of 10 January 2025, GE had a backlog of 26 engines. The first engines are expected to be delivered in March or April 2025, but there is uncertainty.

As of late December, further critical trials of Tejas Mk1A using Category B F404 engines were to commence in January 2025 as a part of a contingency plan. The new deadline for delivery of first aircraft was set for 31 March 2025. The older engines would be replaced once the new engines are delivered. The trials will also include Astra (missile), Astra Mk1 Beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, beyond visual range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAM), EL/M-2052 and indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite (radar warning receiver and advanced self-protection jammer). The aircraft will be delivered after certain certifications are done.

As of 6 February 2025, HAL had three Tejas Mk1A aircraft “ready in the flight line” with another two to be prepared by March-April. Deliveries were expected within few days after GE starts engine deliveries in March. Integration of EW Suite and radars was complete while trials of Astra missiles form these jets was expected soon. GE "promised" to deliver 12 engines in 2025-26 starting in March 2025 with 20 engines to be delivered from 2026-27 onwards. Tejas delivery rate will depend on the revised engine delivery schedules. Meanwhile, Nashik line is reportedly operational and the first Tejas Mk1A is planned to roll out in one or two months. Secretary of Defence Production Sanjeev Kumar stated during Aero India's List of Aero India Editions#15th edition (2025), 2025 edition that Tejas' production line was stabilized, both with HAL and GE engines, and that Tejas' supply will follow the original plan starting in 2025–2026 when 16 to 24 jets would be delivered.

On 9 March 2025, the first rear fuselage for Tejas Mk1A was delivered to HAL by Alpha Tocol Engineering Services. Also, 12 rear fuselages manufactured by HAL was also ready on production line.

As of 16 March 2025, the first Tejas Mk1A from the Nashik (Ozar) production line is expected to be rolled out in April. On 22 March, a report confirmed that, after two years of delay, the General Electric was preparing to deliver the first engine by March-end from the contracted 99 GE F404-IN20 engines as it was undergoing flight tests in their testbed aircraft. Further, GE plans to deliver a total of 12 engines in 2025 followed by a steady rate of only 20 engines per year from 2026 onwards.

After a two-year delay from the anticipated timeframes, the first of 99 F404-IN20 engines was rolled out from GE's factory on 25 March 2025, signaling the start of deliveries. The engine will be further tested at the HAL plant when it arrives in India in April. HAL produced three aircraft in 2025, will receive twelve engines from GE, and plans to produce eleven more aircraft by the end of 2025.

As of 30 March, Tejas Mk1A was undergoing extra firing and EW trials. Also, the first Tejas Mk1A is expected to be delivered from Nashik facility in the first quarter of FY 2025-26 after the HAL gets physical possession of the first engine in India in early April.

On 30 May, the first centre fuselage by VEM Technologies for Tejas Mk1A was delivered to HAL. Another assembly jig to manufacture the component has also been cleared. The centre fuselage of the aircraft is a semi-monocoque construction with both metallic and carbon fiber composite material.

As of June 2025, the first aircraft is now expected to be delivered by the end of the month from the Nashik plant.

Operational history

The Tejas Mark 1 made its international debut on 21 January 2016, at the fourth Bahrain International Airshow.

On 26 January 2017, Tejas made its maiden appearance in the 68th Delhi Republic Day parade, Republic Day parade by joining in the fly-past over the Rajpath, Kartavya Path (then Rajpath) in New Delhi.

In April 2018, the IAF's entire fleet of Tejas Mark 1 aircraft participated in the Gagan Shakti 2018 exercise. It was the IAF's largest air exercise, involving 1,100 aircraft and 15,000 military personnel. During the exercise, the Tejas were deployed to forward bases and demonstrated their reliability and precision strike capability. In 2019, six Tejas fighter jets participated in the Vayu Shakti air exercise, where it has demonstrated its "Multirole combat aircraft#Swing-role, swing role" capability.

According to the commanding officer of No. 45 Squadron IAF, No. 45 Squadron – Group captain (India), Group Captain Samrath Dhankhar, DASH IV HMDS enables the Tejas pilot to take full advantage of high off-boresight Air-to-air missile#Fifth generation, close combat missiles, such as Python (missile), Python-5 and R-73.

On 18 August 2020, IAF deployed the No. 45 Squadron "Flying Dagger" on the western front along the Pakistani border (line of control). It was the first operational deployment of Tejas.

On 27 April 2021, Tejas Mark 1 successfully test fired Python-5 high off-boresight (HOBS) close combat air-to-air missile and further validated enhanced capability of Rafael Derby, I-Derby ER (extended range) BVR missile. Both missiles scored direct hits on targets during the trial.
IAF participated in Exercise Desert Flag VIII, with five Tejas and two Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, held in UAE from 27 February to 17 March 2023. This is the first time Tejas participated in an international flying exercise outside India.On 23 August 2023, Astra Mk-1 Beyond Visual Range air-to-air missile was successfully test fired from HAL Tejas aircraft off the coast of Goa from an altitude of . This is the first time when India test fire an indigenously developed BVRAAM from a homegrown fighter aircraft

In December 2023, plans were revealed to deploy the first batch of Tejas Mk 1A in the Bikaner Airport, Nal airbase in Bikaner, Rajasthan. No. 3 Squadron IAF, No. 3 Squadron and No. 23 Squadron IAF, No. 23 Squadron, the last and current operators of Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21, MiG-21s, are expected to become the first operators of Tejas Mk1A. Both the squadrons were deployed in Nal AFS by June 2024. The first delivery of Tejas Mk 1A is expected by November 2024.On 26 January 2024, on the occasion of 75th Republic Day of India, four Tejas took part in the parade fly-past held at Rajpath, Kartavya Path, New Delhi.

HAL Tejas Mk 1 participated in the first phase of Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024. The jets were escorted by a formation of four HAL Tejas Mk 1 aircraft, one of which was piloted by Vice Chief of the Air Staff (India), Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air marshal (India), Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh. The exercise began with Tejas intercepting German, French and Spanish jets as a part of the training exercise. HAL Tejas was assigned to the Red Force (hostile) as well as the Blue Force (friendly) and its capabilities were proved in both the cases. The jet also received appreciation from the foreign pilots who piloted them. On 13 August, the Chief of Staff of the French Air and Space Force, Chief of French Air Force, General and the Chief of German Air Force Generalleutnant#Germany, Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz piloted HAL Tejas.

The first production aircraft of Tejas Mk1A will be showcased at Aero India 2025.

On 12 March 2025, Astra Mk-1 Beyond Visual Range air-to-air missile was successfully test fired from a Tejas Mk1 prototype over the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha. The missile scored a direct hit on a flying target at a range of over 100 km. This test was significant for the subsequent induction of Tejas Mk1A aircraft. Further trials are also expected for performance evaluation.

Potential operators

HAL proposed exporting the Tejas, with preliminary talks taking place with several friendly countries. It was reported in March 2020 that HAL is willing to set up logistic facilities in Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam as part of exporting the Tejas.

Brazil

In September 2024, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has reportedly considered the adoption of the Tejas to replace their AMX International AMX, AMX and Northrop F-5 jets in service and complement the Saab JAS 39 Gripen, which is being done with a swap of Embraer C-390 Millennium. FAB wanted to acquire General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon, F-16 Fighting Falcon at first from the US, but it was rejected.

According to the FAB, the AMX is due to be retired by 2025 with the F-5s being next by 2030. In November 2024, Brazil offered to India a swap between the C-390 Millennium and the HAL Tejas, to replace the older F-5s in operation, an Indian delegation visited Brazil in December 2024 to negotiate the deal.

Congo

In October 2024, a report suggested that the Air Force of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FAC) was interested to acquire HAL Tejas. It was reported back in August 2024 that a FAC delegation visited India to speak with HAL representatives about the Tejas.

The FAC plans to replace their Sukhoi Su-25s with the Tejas if purchased.

Failed bids

Argentina

The Argentine Air Force had indicated its interest in possibly purchasing the Tejas, as part of its modernization initiative. HAL had offered the Tejas to Argentina, amidst other offers of the CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder, JF-17 from China and the Mikoyan MiG-35, MiG-35 from Russia. Multiple sources had also indicated that the Tejas may likely be a good option for Argentina.

However, any potential sale of the Tejas to Argentina may likely be threatened by British Arms embargo, imposed arms sanctions, since the Tejas utilizes the British Martin-Baker, Martin-Baker MK16 IN16 GS Tejas ejection seat, along with other British-origin components — including an Aerial refueling, aerial-refueling probe and a quartz radome, both supplied by Cobham (company), Cobham Limited. The UK has barred any sale of military-equipment consisting of British-manufactured parts to Argentina ever since the 1982 Falklands War. Argentina's previous efforts to procure modern fighter aircraft, including the Dassault Mirage F1, Mirage F1M, the IAI Kfir, the JAS 39 Gripen and the KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, KAI FA-50 were scuttled due to British diplomatic pressure, since the aforementioned aircraft were found to contain UK-origin parts.

Given the nature of the Argentine-specific sanctions, the Tejas would essentially be subject to UK-scrutiny. Nevertheless, HAL reportedly stated multiple times that they are willing to accommodate Argentinian requests to retrofit the Tejas, and had offered a customised-variant of the Tejas which replaces around 50-specific components and the substitutes all major British-origin components with diplomatically suitable non-British alternatives, including possibly substituting the ejection seat with one indigenously developed and manufactured in India.
However, any customisation to the HAL Tejas would encompass considerable changes to the aircraft's design and additional flight certification. Subsequently, there were indications that the Argentines were willing to look at the JF-17 because of concerns that the time and money required to modify the Tejas to remove non-British parts was beyond what Buenos Aires was willing to spend.

In December 2022, the Argentine government decided to abandon the decision to acquire new fighter aircraft. With President Alberto Fernandez stating in an interview that “Argentina has to allocate its resources to more important things than the purchase of military aircraft. We are in a very unequal continent, but there are no war problems and unity among countries is sought." In July 2023, Argentine newspaper ''La Nacion'' reported that Tejas had been eliminated, with the remaining options being second-hand Danish F-16 fighters or Chinese-Pakistani JF-17s, both which the bidding selection board deemed more advantageous. In March 2024, Denmark agreed to the purchase of 24 Danish F-16s by Argentina.

Australia

In July 2020, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) had issued a tender, seeking a new jet trainer to replace its fleet of BAE Systems Hawk, BAE Hawk 127 trainer aircraft. According to HAL's "58th Annual Report" covering 2020–2021, HAL had offered the HAL Tejas in its "Lead in Fighter Trainer" (LIFT) configuration to Australia's Department of Defence (Australia), Department of Defence (DoD) in July 2020. Other aircraft also reported to be participating in the tender were the Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk, the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master, Aermacchi M-346 Master and the KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, KAI T-50.

However, the Australian Government rejected a government to government deal proposed by the Indian government for 35 Tejas LIFT aircraft for US $1 billion. During bilateral defence talks held in September 2021, ''The Indian Express'' reported Australia's lack of interest in the offer. In February 2022, the Australian government decided to take up a proposal by BAE to upgrade and refurbish its Hawks with new engines and avionics, extending their lifespan until 2032.

Botswana

The Botswana Defence Force Air Wing had approached HAL to procure the Tejas for potentially replacing its Canadair CF-5s due to the aircraft's age and problems of acquiring needed parts for maintenance. The BDFAW had previously considered acquiring Gripens, the F-16, KAI T-50, and the Leonardo Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master, M-346.

As of July 2024, there were reports that talks on acquiring the Tejas are suspended. In January 2025, Botswana officially ended negotiations to purchase the Tejas.

Egypt

During the Dubai Airshow 2021, Egyptian officials expressed their interest in procuring 70 LCA Tejas to replace 100 Hongdu JL-8s. Following the Dubai Airshow 2021, HAL and Indian Air Force officials visited Cairo and discussions were going on. As of June 2022, India has offered to set up local production facilities for the LCA Tejas and also for the Light Utility and Light Combat Helicopters in Egypt.

During Aero India 2023, it was reported that Egypt was seeking around 20 multi-role aircraft. HAL previously reported that 35 LCA Mk-1As were being offered in a contract. In August 2024, it was reported that an agreement to purchase the Chinese Chengdu J-10, Chengdu J-10C, had been signed.

Malaysia

Malaysia had frequently indicated that it may be interested in purchasing the HAL Tejas for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), as part of its attempts to supplement its Mikoyan MiG-29, MiG-29 fleet; reports of Malaysian interest in procuring the aircraft date back to as early as 2019.

In March 2019, the HAL Tejas made its international debut at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA); its presence reportedly generated a great deal of interest, especially by the RMAF. However, in mid-2019, HAL's prospects of exporting the HAL Tejas to Malaysia were severely blemished, owing to India–Malaysia relations#Modern history, diplomatic tussles between India and Malaysia. After the diplomatic skirmishes had ceased in 2020, an RMAF delegation reportedly visited HAL's manufacturing-facility at Bangalore in 2021, to assess the suitability of the HAL Tejas. Possibly in anticipation of a potential order — reaffirming Malaysia's interest in the aircraft.

In 2021, the RMAF formally released a tender and request for proposals for the supply of 18 light combat-aircraft - labelled as the "Fighter Lead In Trainer-Light Combat Aircraft" (FLIT/LCA), in an effort to supplant its ageing BAE Systems Hawk, BAE Hawk 108/208 light-combat aircraft and its Aermacchi MB-339, MB-339CM trainers. Six aircraft were running in the bid for the FLIT/LCA tender — the HAL Tejas MK1A, KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, KAI FA-50, Hongdu JL-10, HAIC L-15, Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master, Aermacchi M-346, TAI Hürjet and Mikoyan MiG-35. Coincidentally, the PAC/CAC JF-17 Thunder, JF-17 — which was reported to be a leading choice for the RMAF, did not participate in the FLIT/LCA tender.

In February 2023, the Malaysian government announced that the South Korean bid had won the tender with the Tejas failing to win the contract. Malaysia subsequently ordered 18 KAI FA-50 Block 20 aircraft worth US$920 million. The FA-50 was reportedly chosen because of it being a tried-and-tested platform in service with numerous countries while the Tejas is largely unproven and untested, with the Indian Air Force being the sole operator. Logistics issues and the FA-50 better meeting the RMAF's FLIT/LCA requirements were also other factors.

Nigeria

On December 7, 2023, HAL reported that Nigeria has expressed interest in acquiring the Tejas. It was reportedly in competition with the JF-17. However in July 2024, there were reports that talks on acquiring the Tejas were suspended. In January 2025, Nigeria withdrew from negotiations to purchase the Tejas. Nigeria instead bought JF 17 from Pakistan which were delivered in 2021.

Philippines

In May 2022, India and the Philippines signed an MOU with the Philippine Aerospace Development Corporation, which mentioned the consideration of purchasing the Tejas and other Indian-made aircraft. On July 7, 2022, the Tejas was dropped from further consideration from the multi-role fighter jet (MRF) project. The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon variants, F-16V Block 70/72 and the JAS-39 Gripen C/D+ are currently the main contenders for the Philippine Air Force's MRF project.

In February 2024, HAL reported that it has offered the Tejas Mark 1A to the PADC as a naval strike platform, equipped with the BrahMos-NG, BrahMos NG missile. HAL also agreed to help set up a local partnership for the assembly of the MK1A.

Sri Lanka

In 2018, it had been reported that Sri Lanka had shown interest in purchasing the Tejas to replace its aging fleets of IAI Kfir and Chengdu J-7 aircraft. The intention was for the acquisition of 8 to 12 aircraft to be pursued through a government-government basic agreement.

In 2021, the Sri Lankan government decided to overhaul their Kfirs instead rather than buying new aircraft, which would cost around $40 million per unit compared to $49 million in total for overhauling all five Kfirs.

United Arab Emirates

The Tejas had attracted interest from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with some discussions held during a visit by UAE Minister of State and Defence, Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi Al Falacy, during a state visit in October 2018, as part of growing defence relations between India and UAE. By May 2022, Tejas had failed to gain any further interest with the UAE placing an order for 80 Rafale F4s from France.

In February 2023, the UAE signed a deal for purchase of 12 Hongdu L-15 trainer and light combat aircraft from China, with options for another 36. UAE officials stated the L-15 order aligned with the UAE's framework for diversifying the military's sources of equipment.

United States

In December 2020, in response to a Request for Information (RFI) from the Naval Air Systems Command, United States Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), HAL offered the "Lead In Fighter Trainer" variant of the HAL Tejas — classified as the "HAL Tejas LIFT", to the United States Navy (USN), as part the latter's initiative to replace its fleet of McDonnell Douglas T-45 Goshawk, T-45 Goshawk trainer aircraft, dubbed the "Undergraduate Jet Training System". Other aircraft participating in the UJTS, are the Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk, T-7 Red Hawk — offered by Boeing in partnership with Saab AB, Saab, and the KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, KAI T-50A Golden Eagle — offered by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), in partnership with Lockheed Martin.

Despite being the only aircraft among the three to be reportedly capable of undertaking operations from an aircraft carrier, the prospects of the USN selecting the HAL Tejas LIFT are reportedly slim, according to multiple sources. Several reasons suggested as the cause of the LIFT's bleak prospects in the UJTS are that HAL has refrained from partnering with a US-based company to offer the LIFT (unlike the consortiums of Boeing-Saab AB, Saab and Korea Aerospace Industries, KAI-Lockheed Martin, offering the Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk, T-7 and the KAI T-50 Golden Eagle, T-50A, respectively), a lack of export orders for the type, and its delta-wing design — which makes it less-suitable for low-speed landing.

Variants

Prototypes

Aircraft already built and projected models to be built. Model designations, tail numbers and dates of first flight are shown.

;Technology Demonstrators (TD)
* TD-1 (KH2001) – 4 January 2001.
* TD-2 (KH2002) – 6 June 2002.
;Prototype Vehicles (PV)
* PV-1 (KH2003) – First flight on 25 November 2003.
* PV-2 (KH2004) – First flight on 1 December 2005.
* PV-3 (KH2005) – First flight on 1 December 2006.
* PV-5 (KH-T2009) – First flight on 26 November 2009 – Fighter/Trainer variant.
* PV-6 (KH-T2010) – First flight on 8 November 2014 – Fighter/Trainer variant.
;Naval Prototypes (NP)
* NP-1 (KHN-T3001) – Two-seat naval variant for carrier operations. Rolled out in July 2010. NP-1 made its first flight on 27 April 2012.
* NP-2 (NAVY3002) – Single-seat naval variant. First flight on 7 February 2015 with ski-jump take-off and arrested landing required in STOBAR carrier.
* NP-5 (NAVY3005) – Two-seat naval variant. First flight on 29 August 2023. Built to production standard incorporating improvements learned from NP-1 and NP-2. It will help in the development of HAL TEDBF.

;Limited Series Production (LSP) aircraft

* LSP-1 (KH2011) – 25 April 2007. This LCA is powered by F404-F2J3 Engine.
* LSP-2 (KH2012) – 16 June 2008. This is the first LCA fitted with F404-IN20 engine.
* LSP-3 (KH2013) – 23 April 2010. The first aircraft to have the Hybrid MMR radar and will be close to the IOC standard.
* LSP-4 (KH2014) – June 2010. The first aircraft that was flown in the (Mark 1) configuration that will be delivered to the Indian Air Force. The aircraft flew with the Hybrid MMR, a Countermeasure Dispensing System, and an identification friend or foe, identify friend or foe electronic system.
* LSP-5 (KH2015) – 19 November 2010. IOC standard, with all sensors including night lighting in the cockpit, and an auto-pilot.
* LSP-7 (KH2017) – First flight on 9 March 2012.
* LSP-8 (KH2018) – First flight trial completed in March 2013. LSP 8 is the final version upon which production is based.

Production variants

*Tejas Mark 1 IOC − Single-seat operational variant for the Indian Air Force. 16 aircraft have been delivered in IOC standard constituting No. 45 Squadron IAF.
*Tejas Mark 1 FOC −Adding a Cobham refuelling pod and Gryazev-Shipunov GSh-23 auto-cannon, to the IOC specification. Delivery of the Tejas Mark 1 in FOC standard has begun and No. 18 Squadron IAF, 18 Squadron (''Flying Bullets'') was equipped with the first aircraft in May 2020. FOC standard Tejas Mark 1 are BVRAAM capable, with general flight envelope expansion, increased angle of attack, higher g-limit of +9 g, updated avionics and flight control software suite, as well as capable of hot refueling and aerial refueling. Delivery of all 32 single seat Tejas Mk 1 aircraft is complete.
*Tejas Trainer − Two-seat operational conversion trainer for the Indian Air Force; also act as LiFT (Lead-in Fighter Trainer) and ground-attack aircraft.
*Tejas Mark 1A − An enhanced Tejas Mark 1 equipped with EL/M-2052 and Uttam AESA radar, self-protection jammer, radar warning receiver, as well as being able to mount an external Electronic countermeasure, ECM pod. The first Limited Series Production (LSP) aircraft of the Mark.1A variant rolled out in April 2022, and meant to be used as a Flying Testbed (FTB). A second LSP rolled out in late 2022, and shall be used to validate design changes meant to make the Mark.1A variant lighter than the Mark.1, and to optimize weight distribution.

Future developments

*SPORT - Supersonic Omni-Role Trainer (SPORT) aircraft is a two-seater Lead-in fighter training, Lead-in Fighter Training (LiFT) aircraft being developed from the LCA Trainer Mark 1 for export purposes as light fighter.
* Tejas Mark 2 - or Medium Weight Fighter, is an enhanced Tejas Mark 1 design which is expected to have a more powerful engine and an increased payload carrying capacity. The Tejas Mark 2 will feature an AESA radar, an on-board oxygen generation system and a built-in electronic warfare suite among other improvements to avionics. In January 2019, Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa said that the IAF has committed to procure twelve squadrons of Tejas Mark 2 aircraft.
* CATS MAX - The main component of HAL Combat Air Teaming System (CATS), CATS MAX will be a twin seater Tejas Mark 1A modified with CATS interface to act as the mothership of CATS components. The CATS MAX is to be crewed by a pilot and a weapon system officer (WSO), with the later controlling the CATS.
* Tejas Trainer - NP-5 based operational conversion trainer for the Indian Navy, with IFR-probe. Indian Navy was reported to be considering HAL's proposal to reestablish a "Carrier Training Squadron" with 18 Naval Tejas, that would be posted on both of India's carriers and additionally serve as point defence interceptors.

Cancelled variants

*Tejas Mark 1 Navy - Naval Variant based on HAL Tejas Mark 1 powered by F404 engine. Cancelled in favour of the new twin-engine naval fighter HAL TEDBF.
* Tejas Mark 2 Navy - Proposed naval variant based on the HAL Tejas Mk2, Tejas Mk 2. Cancelled in favour of the HAL TEDBF.
* Tejas Trainer IN - Two-seat operational conversion trainer for the Indian Navy. Cancelled in favour of the HAL TEDBF.

Operators

;

* Indian Air Force
** Orders and deliveries:
*** Mark 1 – 32 delivered (31 operational)
*** Mk 1 trainer – 6 delivered, 12 on order
*** Mark 1A – 73 on order, 97 more cleared.
** Deployment:
*** Sulur Air Force Station
**** No. 45 Squadron IAF, No. 45 Squadron (''Flying Daggers'') (Mk 1 single, twin seater IOC)
***Naliya Air Force Station
****No. 18 Squadron IAF, No. 18 Squadron (''Flying Bullets'') (Mk 1 single, twin seater FOC)

Accidents and incidents

* 12 March 2024: A Tejas Mark 1 FOC from the No. 18 Squadron IAF, No. 18 Squadron (Flying Bullets) of the Indian Air Force crashed near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan after taking part in a tri-service exercise, Bharat Shakti. The pilot ejected safely and no one was harmed. The crash was the first for the Tejas in its operational history of around 8 years and the first since its maiden flight 23 years ago. An investigation launched for the matter stated that an "oil pump malfunction" led to engine seizure resulting in the crash.

Specifications (Tejas Mk-1A)

See also

Notes

References

Citations

Bibliography

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External links

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Official Government of India Tejas site

Features and analysis:


— A feature by ''The Hindu'' on the Tejas test pilots.

"LCA and Economics" by Sunil Sainis and George Joseph


by Air Marshal MSD Wollen (Retd).


by Ashok Parthasarathi and Raman Puri.

Technical:

An Approach to High AoA Testing of the LCA



LCA Avionics And Weapon System Mission Computer Software Development: A Case Study

TEJAS The Indian Light Combat Aircraft, official brochure 2015


ADA Tejas IOC brochure

General Electric F404 family turbofan engines datasheet

General:



"Dawn of Tejas" Aero India special report from flightglobal.com

Radiance in Indian Skies - The Tejas Saga by Air Marshal P Rajkumar, BR Srikant

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