New Delhi, April 2: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is eagerly awaiting the Tejas Mark 1A. The delivery deadlines have been missed multiple times, but clarity on the delivery schedule may emerge in the last week of April. According to defense officials, a crucial meeting is planned between the IAF and HAL, the manufacturer of Tejas. This meeting will focus on the progress of major, minor, and essential operational requirements for the Tejas Mark 1A.
Defense sources indicate that if HAL meets the mandatory operational needs, a delivery date for the Tejas could be established. Conversely, failure to meet these requirements may lead to further delays. The outcomes of this meeting will largely determine when HAL can hand over the first aircraft to the IAF. The Tejas Mark 1A must comply with the Air Staff Quality Requirements (ASQR). This means the aircraft must meet the finalized ASQR specified in the contract. Preparing any aircraft for service involves rigorous inspections based on standards set by the Indian Air Force.
The aircraft provided by HAL must first prove itself against the ASQR before it can enter service with the IAF. The ASQR is a critical document that outlines the technical and operational needs of the aircraft.
Once the aircraft leaves the factory, the IAF’s technical team will inspect it, and test pilots will conduct flight tests. This process ensures that the aircraft meets ASQR standards. A detailed report will be prepared after the inspection. If any deficiencies are found, HAL will be asked to rectify them. Only then will the path be clear for the IAF to receive its first Tejas Mark 1A.
The Tejas program has progressed slowly, partly due to delays in engine deliveries. However, engines have started arriving gradually. The engine deal for the Tejas Mark 1A program was signed with the American company General Electric (GE) in 2021, under which India is set to receive a total of 99 F404 engines.
The delay in fighter jet deliveries has also drawn frustration from the Chief of the Indian Air Force. There are several variants of Tejas, including Tejas Mark-1, Tejas Mark 1A, and the Tejas Trainer Aircraft, with work ongoing on the most advanced version, Tejas Mark-2.
In terms of current security needs, the Indian Air Force requires 42 fighter squadrons but is currently operating with only 29. The Tejas is expected to help bridge this gap. The Air Force has already inducted 38 out of 40 Tejas aircraft. A deal for 83 LCA Tejas Mark-1A has been made with HAL, but deliveries have yet to commence. These 83 Tejas Mark 1A will form a total of 4 squadrons. Additionally, a deal for 97 Tejas Mark 1A for 5 extra squadrons has also been finalized.
Out of the total 11 squadrons of Tejas, 2 have already been inducted, while 9 are still pending.
Leave a Comment