IAF has emphasized the need for multiple production lines and joint ventures with private players to speed-up delivery.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence has urged the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to expedite TEJAS fighter jet production by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The call comes amid a significant shortfall in the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) squadron strength, which currently stands at only 31 active squadrons, well below the necessary 42 to confront potential conflicts with neighboring countries like Pakistan and China. Urgent action is essential to maintain India’s air defense and security.
The delays in the delivery of the 83 TEJAS MK-1A jets are a significant concern, particularly given their strategic importance to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Originally slated for delivery starting in March 2024, not a single jet has been delivered so far, putting pressure on Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to expedite production.
To meet this pressing demand, HAL has been directed to ramp up its production capacity, underscoring the critical need for timely execution of this project. The current order, valued at approximately Rs 48,000 crore, is a substantial investment by the Indian government in boosting indigenous defense capabilities. Additionally, the IAF’s interest in procuring 97 more TEJAS MK-1A jets adds further urgency to resolve production bottlenecks and streamline delivery timelines.
Delays in production are mainly due to supply chain issues with the F404 engines from GE Aerospace, which have pushed their delivery from March 2023 to April 2025. Logistical challenges and pandemic-related component shortages have hindered progress. So far, HAL has delivered only 36 of the 40 initial TEJAS jets, raising concerns about its production capacity.
In response to these challenges, there are calls to diversify production lines and seek public-private partnerships to enhance manufacturing capacity. The IAF has emphasized the need for multiple production lines and joint ventures with private players to expedite delivery of these crucial aircraft. Addressing production delays is essential for maintaining India’s aerial defense capabilities amid evolving security threats.
