Bengaluru, September 29 (Daily Kiran) : The Tejas fighter jet division of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) became the focal point of attention during the Indian Air Force’s largest multinational exercise, ‘Tarang Shakti 2026’, held in Bengaluru. Senior delegates from 28 friendly nations visited HAL’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) division as part of the event.
The visiting delegation included air chiefs and senior officials from countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Brazil, Peru, Algeria, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and the Maldives. They were warmly welcomed by HAL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Dr. D.K. Sunil, along with senior officials from the Tejas division.
HAL shared images of the event, stating, “Air forces from around the world gathered at HAL. Senior representatives from 28 friendly nations, including Indonesia, Thailand, Brazil, Peru, Algeria, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and the Maldives, visited the LCA Tejas division.”
The delegates received a comprehensive presentation on the indigenous Tejas MK1, Tejas MK1A, and the future Tejas MK2 programs. They toured the production line, final assembly hangar, and flight testing facilities, gaining insights into the aircraft’s development.
Countries like Indonesia, Brazil, and Nigeria are on the lookout for affordable and reliable options to replace their aging fighter fleets, positioning Tejas as a strong contender to meet their needs.
HAL officials emphasized that Tejas is not just a fighter jet; it symbolizes ‘Make in India’ and self-reliance. With over 65% indigenous content and world-class avionics, it stands competitive in the international market.
This visit occurred during a time when several air forces are conducting exercises together in Tarang Shakti 2026. Experts believe such visits will significantly boost India’s defense exports and enhance Tejas’s recognition in the global market.
The Tejas MK1A program is expected to receive a major boost from HAL’s deal for GE F404 engines in the coming months. Between October and December 2026, HAL is likely to receive 12 additional GE F404-IN20 engines, aiding in the production and delivery of Tejas MK1A fighter jets for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
According to Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at the NDTV Defense Summit 2026, a notable increase in engine deliveries from GE Aerospace is anticipated in the last quarter of the year. This development could address one of the most significant challenges facing the Tejas MK1A program.
HAL has already received 10 engines, including three delivered recently in August. Officials expect four engines to arrive monthly from October to December. If the delivery schedule remains on track, HAL could receive 12 more engines by the end of the year, bringing the total supplied engines to 22.
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