MISSED – First delivery of TEJAS MK 1A was scheduled for 31 Mar 2024. HAL Postponed the delivery to Aug 2024.
Contract for 83 TEJAS MK1A aircraft (48,000Crore) was signed on 01 Feb 21, with commencement of delivery in 3 years.
The first sortie itself was flown on 28 Mar 24, followed by time-consuming process of snag rectifications and certification. HAL is still optimistic about meeting the delivery deadline of 83 aircraft.
Non availability of F414 GE engines and supply chain disruptions due to Russia-Ukraine and Israel-HAMAS wars adds to the woes. In Jun 2023, HAL signed a contract with GE for production of 99 F414 engines with 80% TOT in eleven critical areas. Delay is also likely in supply of AESA radars from Israel.
LCA project as replacement for Mig-21 aircraft is four decades old. So Far IAF has inducted 40 aircraft (20 in IOC and 20 in FOC configuration). Delivery of 6 trainer aircraft is pending.
MK1A version was not planned earlier. In 2015, it was envisaged as an interim version with 40 odd improvements over MK1, before MK2 version with structural changes could be developed. These improvements included, AESA radar, BVR capability, Aerial refuelling, better avionics, better EW suite and improved maintainability.
In Apr 24, MoD has issued a tender for 97 more Mk1A aircraft (40+83+97). This is to be followed by induction of MK2 (2028) and AMCA aircraft. HAL also has plans to boost its production capability from 1 line (8ac/year) to three lines (24ac/year).
Pakistan has already inducted JF17C Block 3 aircraft. It is also likely to inducted Chinese 5th generation aircraft.
China is already operating indigenously developed and produced 5th generation aircraft (J-20 and J-31). It is developing a 6th generation aircraft (by 2035).
IAF has always supported Atmanirbharta. However, its drawdown of fighter aircraft strength (30 odd sqns) is cause of serious concern. While supporting self-reliance the minimum deterrence value needs to be maintained, with a balance between the quantity and quality of platforms and weapons.
Keeping the threat perception in mind there is an urgent need to procure quality fighter aircraft. While case for 114 MRFA case is in the process, immediate procurement of two squadrons of Rafael is recommended (aircraft is already in operation with IAF). The further procurement plan could be reviewed depending upon the progress of indigenous projects.
The media is abuzz with discussions on the subject.
Link to Panel discussion with Shiv Aroor:-
Link to the quoted article by Ritu Sharma on Eurasian Times:-
https://www.eurasiantimes.com/pakistan-pilots-start-5th-gen-fighter-jet/
Bottom Line
Doklam and Galwan will keep happening if the minimum deterrence value is not maintained.
Suggestions and value additions are most welcome.
For regular updates, please register here:-
References and credits
To all the online sites and channels.
Disclaimer:
Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.