The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to strengthen its firepower with five new Tejas light combat aircraft. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), the state-run aerospace giant, on Thursday announced that the five LCA Mk-1A jets are fully ready for delivery, while an additional nine aircraft have already been built and flown.

Tejas, a single-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft, is built to operate in high-threat environments and is designed for air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and strike missions.

Speaking to news agency PTI, an official stated, "The HAL confirms that five aircraft are fully ready for delivery, incorporating major contracted capabilities in accordance with the agreed specifications."

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"An additional nine aircraft have already been built and flown. Upon receipt of engines from GE, these aircraft will be made ready for delivery," the official added. He further stated that all design and development issues identified are being addressed on an expedited basis.

Rs 48,000 Crore Deal For Procurement Of Tejas Mk-1A Jets

The Defence Ministry in February 2025 inked a Rs 48,000-crore deal with HAL for the procurement of 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets for the Indian Air Force. Deliveries, however, were delayed primarily as GE Aerospace missed several deadlines for supplying the engines required to power the aircraft.

"The HAL has received five engines from GE as on date. The supply position from GE is positive, and the future delivery outlook aligns with HAL's delivery plans. HAL assures that it will meet the guidance projected for the current financial year," the spokesperson said.

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The spokesperson further stated that Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) is in active discussions with the IAF to ensure the aircraft are delivered at the earliest.

Last year, HAL Chairperson and Managing Director DK Sunil stated that the IAF would receive at least six Tejas jets by March 2026, attributing the delivery delays primarily to engine supply constraints after US defence major GE Aerospace missed several deadlines.

"I can assure you that as of today, six aircraft are ready. There is no let-up from our side. We are building those aircraft and getting them ready, and we will be in a position to deliver (by this fiscal)," Sunil told PTI.

(With PTI Inputs)